Basic Dental Care: What to Expect on a Routine Dental Checkup
A routine dental checkup is essential for maintaining your dental as well as overall health as your dentist is the right person to notice early signs of dental problems, gum disease, or oral cancer and they can take proper measures to prevent these problems. Many people visit their dentist once or twice a year. However, your dentist may recommend how often you should visit depending on the severity of your dental problems.
During your routine dental checkup (dental exam), your dentist or hygienist will:
- Evaluate your oral hygiene as well as your overall health
- Check whether you are at a risk of tooth/root decay, or gum/bone disease
- Assess whether you need tooth replacement or tooth restoration
- Examine your jaw and bite to identify any problem
- Clear off any stains on your teeth
- Show you proper cleaning steps for your teeth or dentures
- Determine whether you need fluoride
- Ask for dental X-rays or other necessary diagnostic procedures
As your oral health affects your overall health, it's essential to let your dentist know about your problems or concerns which can be:
- Any new health issues since your last dental visit.
- Medications or supplements you are taking, including the dosage.
- Dental anxiety.
- Any changes you noticed with your mouth, teeth, or gums.
Many people may not have any idea what happens during a routine dental checkup which causes stress and anxiety. At our Reign Dental offices located in Shoreline and Milton, WA, we understand that having a proper knowledge of routine dental checkup procedure will help in reducing this worry and anxiety.
Here's what a routine dental checkup includes:
1. Your Medical History
Before a routine checkup, your hygienist will ask questions regarding your medical history if it is your first appointment. However, if you have been to the dental office before, they will want to know if there have been any changes since your last visit. It's important for your dental team to know about any health concerns such as allergies or anxieties so you can get the right care and treatment.
2. Teeth Cleaning
Your hygienist or dentist will first clean your teeth thoroughly. They will scrap off buildup plaque that gets collected above and below the gum line and then they will floss your teeth to remove the food particles clinging to your teeth. After that, they use a tooth polisher to give your teeth a smooth finish that prevents further accumulation of plaque.
3. Teeth Examination
Your dentist will now examine your teeth to check for any early signs of tooth decay or gum disease. They will check for gum swelling, redness or deep pockets which are all signs of gum disease.
4. Dental X-rays
Your dentist may recommend taking an X-ray of your mouth to check any issues below the surface of your mouth. The X-ray will show the roots beneath the gum line and jawbones helping the dentist see what is actually happening in your mouth.
5. Dental Exam
This dental examination is different from your initial teeth examination. Your dentist will use the X-ray to check if there is any loss of bone or other abnormalities below the gum line. They will look for any evidence of TMJ disorders or tooth grinding and will also screen you for oral cancer.
Once your dental exam is done, your dentist will advise you the treatments needed to prevent or treat the dental problems. Sometimes they may schedule another dental appointment to treat the problem or they may suggest some steps you can follow at home for a better oral health.
Did you visit your dentist recently? It's time to schedule your routine dental checkup with Reign Dental located in Shoreline and Milton, WA.
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