Too many adults start to slip up when it comes to keeping up with regular dental checkups and cleanings. This can lead to a lot of dental problems and just brushing and flossing at home isn't going to cut it. Are you unsure whether you need to schedule an appointment with your local dentist? Check out some of the following issues that start to arise when you are long overdue for a cleaning:

1. Your Teeth Have a Buildup of Plaque

Even if you brush twice a day and floss each time, you will still have some tartar buildup. While the brushing action will help get rid of a very thin layer of it, it will build up on your teeth along your gum line unless you are seeing your dentist for a professional and thorough cleaning. You might not notice the plaque at first, but if you wait too long, you will be able to see it and so can other people if they look at your teeth while you smile.

2. Your Teeth Are Starting to Decay

Small cavities are usually what people begin to experience and if they go to the local dentist to get it treated and filled in, there isn't a problem. The problem is when you do not go to the dentist and you try to ignore the cavity. Some cavities are painless for some people, as long as they are careful with what and how they eat. The thing is though, even if you are not experiencing any pain from the cavity, it will start to develop into decay and eventually cause you to lose that tooth.

3. Your Breath Stinks No Matter What You Do

If you have started to notice that your breath stinks, even if you brush, floss, and use mouthwash as directed, then you need to see the dentist. When you do not go to the dentist regularly to remove tartar and plaque buildup, you will begin to experience bad breath. This is not an issue that can be corrected unless the cause of the bad breath is removed from the teeth.

Now that you have a better idea as to how to take care of your oral health, it's probably time to go ahead and set up a dentist appointment. The sooner you and your dentist address these issues the better so you can improve your dental health.