Did you know that the American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every six months? Regular checkups and cleanings allow them to monitor your overall oral health so they can catch and treat any potential concerns, like thinning enamel, damaged restorations, or swollen gums, before they become more serious.
Despite this, it’s estimated that less than half of Americans see their provider routinely, and many only visit when they have a pressing problem. If you’re anxious about making an appointment because it’s been a while since your last exam, continue reading to learn about 5 things you can expect to happen!
Step #1: Update Your Information
The first thing your dental team will do is update your medical history. Your oral health can influence and be impacted by your general well-being, so they’ll want to know about any diagnoses or surgeries you might have had since your last dental exam. They’ll also list your current prescription medications and any supplements you take regularly to avoid doing anything that might cause an adverse reaction.
Step #2: Take New X-rays
Most providers take X-rays at least once annually to look beneath your teeth and gums to ensure no problems have developed below the surface. Many have state-of-the-art technology to take digital X-rays that are more comfortable for the patient and produce more accurate results than traditional dental X-rays.
Step #3: Examine Your Mouth
Then, your dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and any existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns, to look for any indicators of cavities, periodontal disease, injuries, or other issues.
Most providers also include a soft-tissue screening for oral cancer as part of their examination to help prevent it. Although it’s not considered a common problem, it can be fatal, and catching it early can significantly improve the prognosis.
Step #4: Deep Cleaning
Once the examination is complete, your hygienist will use special instruments to carefully remove even the most stubborn plaque and tartar buildup from your enamel. Then, they’ll diligently floss between your teeth to clear away any remaining germs that might be hiding beneath your gumline. Finally, they’ll polish your teeth using a special brush to remove more recent surface stains.
Step #5: Provide a Treatment Plan
If your dental team found any issues requiring treatment, they will put together a treatment plan for your approval. For example, if you’ve developed cavities, they might suggest a tooth-colored filling or placing a dental crown to restore your tooth’s appearance and functionality while simultaneously protecting it from additional harm.
Understanding what to expect from your next dental checkup can help ease any frayed nerves about your upcoming appointment!
About the Practice
Patients at Skyline Dental of Morristown benefit from two dentists with decades of combined experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. Dr. Henkin and Dr. Xholi collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services and are happy to help with everything from routine prevention to more complex procedures. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to improve patient comfort and deliver reliable results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (862) 260-4116.