Dental Checkup Expectations

Everyone needs to visit the dentist at least twice a year. Ignoring those visits can lead to adverse effects on your oral health, so you should make an effort to get in to see your dentist at least twice a year. If you haven't been to the dentist in several years, you might not know what happens at your appointments. 

It's normal to be anxious before a dental appointment, but you can feel more at ease if you learn some information about what the dentist does and about the treatments they will provide for you.

Why You Need a Dental Checkup

Regular dental checkups are important because they allow the dentist to examine your teeth and gums thoroughly. A dental cleaning is also part of the exam, and the dentist uses it as an opportunity to fix any cavities and perform other procedures that might be necessary at that time. 

In addition to regular checkups, you should also visit your dentist if you experience any pain in your mouth, notice any changes in your gums, have trouble swallowing, or experience any tooth sensitivity. If you have any of those symptoms, you could have a problem with your teeth or gums, and the dentist is the best person to check out your mouth.

At Your Dental Appointment

Your dental appointment starts when you meet with the dental assistant, who will take your dental health history. You will ask the dental assistant questions about your teeth and your mouth during that time. 

When asked about the last time you brushed, flossed, or saw your dentist, you might think you didn't visit the dentist recently, but you can feel at ease if you know the importance of regular dental checkups. It is not unusual for people to wait several years between dental visits.

Common Dental Treatments

1. X-Rays and Review

The dentist will usually review a recent health history during a dental checkup. This includes looking at all recent past treatments or any current conditions. An assistant will then take an X-ray so the dentist can get a detailed look at the teeth and mouth. X-rays can reveal cavities, infections, bone loss, and other issues.

2. Cleaning and Polishing

Your hygienist will sit you in a chair and cover your lap with a cloth. They will then apply an ultrasonic brush to your teeth, which will remove plaque. They will also use gritty toothpaste, which was not previously possible with the tools patients can buy at home. This process can further remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth and make them look nicer.

3. Buildup Removal

Plaque is a sticky film that forms over teeth when we eat. Prolonged plaque buildup can lead to cavities and gum disease. Tartar, another film, forms over the plaque when it is not removed. Tartar allows bacteria to enter, which can eat away at the enamel and get deep into the roots and pulp.

4. Inspection from the Dentist

After reviewing X-rays, the dentist talks to the patient about any concerns he saw in the pictures. The dentist also looks at the patient's teeth with an eye loupe. The dentist can also screen for oral cancer. The dentist can answer questions and give oral hygiene advice.

Conclusion

You know that regular visits to a dentist are important to your well-being. You can have a routine cleaning and check-up without spending half of the day getting to appointments. You should feel confident in your dentist's knowledge and training to address any potential issues with your teeth or mouth.

Taylor Made Smiles is your trusted family and cosmetic dentist in Monroe, GA. For over four decades, we have kept Monroe, GA, smiling by providing excellent dental care and treatment options, from dental implants, veneers, crowns, cosmetic fillings, whitening procedures, and more. If you want to speak with a general dentist about preventive care or cosmetic dental services in Monroe, GA, call us at (770) 762-6301 today!