
Why Get A Regular Dental Checkup?
Keeping your smile looking great and healthy means more than brushing and flossing, although those are significant components of a healthy smile! Your smile also requires professional care to help monitor your oral health. Dental checkup exams are a vital part of oral health, ensuring your teeth, gums, and mouth stay in the best shape possible. But what exactly happens during a dental checkup? Let’s dive in.
What Happens During a Dental Checkup Exam?
A dental checkup typically consists of two main parts: a comprehensive oral examination and a professional cleaning. Here’s what you can expect:
Oral Examination:
- Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and other oral structures for signs of decay, gum disease, or abnormalities.
- They may use X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth and jawbone, which helps detect hidden issues like cavities, impacted teeth, or bone loss.
- Oral cancer screening is often included, where the dentist checks for unusual lumps, discoloration, or sores in your mouth.
Professional Cleaning:
- A dental hygienist removes hardened plaque and tartar buildup that flossing and brushing cannot reach or remove.
- Teeth are polished to remove surface-level stains, leaving them smooth and bright.
- Your dental hygienist may apply fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
Why Are Dental Checkups Vital?
- Preventive Care: Regular checkups catch problems early, preventing them from escalating to more severe and becoming more costly to treat.
- Oral Cancer Detection: Early oral cancer detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. Your dental professionals are trained to spot the early warning signs.
- Gum Disease Management: Untreated gum disease can cause early loss of teeth and has also been linked to certain health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.
- Education and Guidance: Dentists provide personalized advice on oral hygiene techniques, diet, and habits that affect dental health, like grinding or smoking.
- Aesthetic Benefits: Professional cleaning helps keep your smile looking its best by removing stains and polishing teeth.
How Often Should You See Your Dentist?
Most dentists recommend visiting every six months for a routine checkup. However, your dental professional may recommend a different schedule based on your specific needs, such as if you’re prone to cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Dental Visits
- Be Honest: Share any dental issues or concerns, such as sensitivity, pain, or changes in your mouth.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about treatments, preventive measures, or how to improve your oral hygiene routine.
- Schedule Appointments Regularly: Consistency is key to maintaining oral health.
- Follow Recommendations: Use the products and follow the advice your dentist provides for at-home care.
Regular dental checkup exams are a cornerstone of good oral health and overall well-being because they can help prevent serious dental issues that can progress to pain and costly treatments. If it’s been a while since your last visit, there’s no better time than now to schedule an appointment! Contact us to learn more or to schedule a consultation.