Did you know that today is National Dentist's Day? Today, we celebrate our Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) dentists. Here are five reasons why you should, too: 

1. AGD general dentists are the gatekeepers to oral health.

   Poor oral health doesn’t just stop with your teeth and gums. As gatekeepers to oral health, general dentists also play a role in detecting gum disease as well as other systemic health conditions. For example, studies have shown that bacteria from gum disease does play a role in the development or advancement of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and several others. General dentists can detect if your poor oral health is the result or cause of other health conditions.

2. AGD general dentists participate in ongoing education to receive Fellowship and Mastership status.

   AGD general dentists are focused on continuing education to remain up-to-date on new instruments, technologies and scientific studies. AGD’s continuing education offerings and Fellowship and Mastership awards foster and recognize continuous learning, enabling general dentists to provide the most current treatment modalities for comprehensive care of their patients.

3. AGD general dentists are skilled in different areas of dental specialties.

   AGD general dentists provide a range of dental services. AGD requires its members to continue to participate in ongoing learning opportunities, increasing their knowledge and skills in other specialty areas of the profession such as cosmetic dentistry, implants and prosthodontics.

4. AGD general dentists recommend that patients maintain regular dental visits.

   General dentists can be agents of change for their patients, utilizing each interaction as an opportunity to help educate them as to the importance of good oral health and healthy eating habits. A general dentist can share expertise and knowledge at these appointments, informing patients of findings in their mouths and encouraging them to take an active role in their dental care. That is why it’s important for you to see your dentist twice a year.

5. AGD general dentists are qualified to screen for oral cancer.
   With an estimated 51,500 people expected to be diagnosed in 2018, early detection for oral cancer is key. That is why general dentists suggest screening for oral cancer to their patients as part of their routine dental appointment. Educating patients is essential to reduce the impact of this disease. Talk to your general dentist to learn more. Click here to learn more about the AGD Foundation’s Oral Cancer Awareness Advocacy efforts.

Schedule an appointment with an AGD dentist today and benefit from the wide range of services they provide.