A dentist checkup should be a routine part of your life. Routine checkups help prevent the buildup of plaque on your teeth and help catch tooth decay before it becomes too much of a problem. If you haven’t had a dentist checkup in a while, here’s what to expect from your visit.
- X-Rays– Usually you will have X-rays taken of your teeth and gums, especially if you haven’t been in to see the dentist in a while. The dentist will review your X-rays and will be able to tell if you have any cavities or tooth decay. The technician will have to adjust the camera several times to get different views of your mouth. This whole process only takes a few minutes.
- Cleaning– You will get a cleaning by a dental hygienist. The hygienist scrapes the plaque buildup off your teeth with a special tool. Your toothbrush is unable to get all of this plaque by itself, so it’s important to get this done. The hygienist will floss your teeth and polish them and then apply fluoride. Cleanings are not painful.
- Sealants– If your dentist thinks you need it, a sealant may be applied to the chewing surface of some of your teeth. This helps prevent cavities and stops the buildup of plaque. The sealant acts as a barrier from food and bacteria getting stuck in the small grooves on the surface of your teeth.
Your dentist may also ask you about your overall health. More and more research is being done to show links between oral health and overall health. For example, those with diabetes tend to be at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease. Keeping your dentist informed about your medical history will help him or her to provide you with better dental care.
You should be receiving a dentist checkup 2 times per year. Regular dental visits will help you keep your teeth in the best condition possible and prevent bigger dental problems from developing if you catch them early on. We would love to see you for your next dentist checkup. Call and schedule an appointment today!