What Should You Expect at a Regular Dental Visit?
Staying on top of visiting the dentist regularly is extremely important for your oral health. These routine visits can help prevent plaque from turning into tartar and catch any other problems early on before they worsen. If it has been a while since you last visited the dentist or you would like a refresher on what the process is likely to consist of, read more below.
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Arrival & Check In:
It is important to allow yourself enough time to arrive at the office so that you don't feel rushed or get anxious. If you have dental insurance, you may have to pay a copay after your appointment. If you do not have insurance, it’s important to find out before the appointment how much you are expected to pay so there are no surprises.
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Exam:
After checking in and filling out any necessary paperwork, you will be brought to the back treatment areas where a hygienist or dentist will review your dental history and give an oral exam of your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, etc. They will look for anything unusual or that might need extra attention. Your dentist might also recommend an X-ray, most often if it is your first visit or if it has been a while since your last scan.
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Cleaning:
Teeth cleanings are essential to keep teeth and gums healthy for years to come. After the physical exam, the dental hygienist will remove any plaque or tartar that has built up over time. They will then brush the patient’s teeth with an electric brush to polish and clean. Next, the hygienist will floss between each tooth and rinse the mouth to remove any remaining debris.
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Other Treatments:
Depending on your needs, the dentist might recommend additional treatments such as a fluoride treatment. Plaque that forms on teeth can cause erosion, which leads to cavities. Fluoride, a mineral, helps to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities from forming. A fluoride treatment is very beneficial as teeth can weaken and be more susceptible to decay and breakage over time. Some other treatments may include a dental sealant, cavity treatment, mouth guard fitting, etc.
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After the Visit:
If you have any questions after your appointment, please do not hesitate to ask before leaving the office or by telephone. If you had any treatments done, your dentist may recommend over-the-counter pain medicine if your teeth or mouth are sore. If you have any urgent issues in between your routine visits, do not hesitate to let your dentist know right away, especially if it is an emergency.
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Follow up:
For the general population, it is recommended that one visit the dentist every 6 months for a cleaning. This allows the hygienist to remove any plaque buildup before it turns into tartar, which can only be done by a professional. There are a few factors that might require one to visit the dentist for a cleaning more or less often, such as age, oral health, and lifestyle. If your dentist discovers something during your exam, they will give you a treatment plan and start with the care that is needed first. If other problems need attention, they may have you come back sooner than 6 months.