Why Dental Checkups Are Essential 

You might think you don’t need to make a dentist appointment if you’re not experiencing any problems, but that’s not true. Even if your smile is happy and healthy, there could be dental health issues beginning that only an examination from a dentist can catch. Dental checkups are an essential part of preventive dentistry — this is why. 

Preventative Dentistry 

Think of preventative dentistry like you think of getting a physical done with your primary care physician. You go to those appointments even when you don’t have any symptoms of other issues. This is to make sure that everything with your health is still in tip top shape. Preventative dentistry is no different. This realm of dentistry is focused on keeping your teeth healthy, but also catching problems early should they arise. The American Dental Association explains that the most effective way to ensure optimal oral health is to prevent oral diseases and conditions before they begin. 

What a Dental Checkup Consists Of 

When you come in for your dental checkup, which should happen every six months, it will include a few parts. These dental visits will include: 

Seeing a hygienist and your dentist

Two oral healthcare professionals assist you during this appointment. First, the dental hygienist will perform an initial exam of your gums. While they can’t diagnose you, they can make note of any areas of concern. They will document any changes in your overall health and medicine use. Next, they will clean and polish your teeth. Finally, they will talk to you about caring for your teeth and gums, and answer any questions you might have about home care products. Next, Your dentist will perform their own exam of your gums and teeth, ask about changes in your overall health or medicine use, review the cleaning done by the hygienist, look for signs of oral cancer and other diseases, diagnose any oral health problems, and make treatment recommendations.

Cleaning

Cleaning your teeth at home through brushing and flossing can help remove plaque, but that’s about it. Only a professional cleaning at your dental provider’s office can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the hardened plaque, also known as tartar that builds up on teeth. This is done using a series of metal hand instruments to clean your teeth. Some are using ultrasonic scalers, which provide deep cleaning above and below the gum line.

Polishing

After your teeth have been cleaned from plaque and tartar, they are polished to remove plaque and stains on the tooth surface. The polish contains an abrasive substance and fluoride. It is applied using a small rotating rubber cup or brush attached to the dental handpiece.

Prevention

After your cleaning and exam, your dental team will offer additional instructions for you to follow at home, based on the results of your exam. This is also the best time to ask your hygienist for instructions about brushing or flossing, or general care questions about your teeth and gums.

X-rays

X-rays may or may not be taken during your checkup. Your dentist will consider your oral exam, dental history, and risk for developing cavities to decide how often you need X-rays. If needed, the X-ray will be conducted and reviewed by your dental team. 

Treatment recommendations

If any oral health problems are found during your examination, your dentist will make recommendations for the best next steps. These might include referral to another oral healthcare specialist. Further, it could include additional diagnostic tests or advice to return for restoration work. 

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning 

A dental checkup is to thoroughly exam your mouth and check for signs of dental health issues. At Stonebrook Family Dental, once Dr. Kevin Varley has had the chance to gather his findings and make his diagnosis, he will work with you to develop a treatment plan. This will get your smile the way you desire it to be — happy and healthy. Sometimes, you may need to come back to get a crown or filling, however, other times you may just need to make some changes to your dental health routine at home. Whatever the findings and treatment plan, Dr. Varley and our team are dedicated to making sure you love your smile. 

Make an Appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental

If you’re overdue for a dental checkup, don’t hesitate to call us today for an appointment. The best way to protect your smile is to care for it before problems arise. For your dental checkup, click here to make an appointment or call us today at (303)-872-7907.