What Should You Expect at a Regular Dental Visit?
You should feel comfortable and relaxed at your dentist’s office. Ask your friends and colleagues for recommendations in your area. When you arrive at your dentist’s office, you need to check in. During your check-in, you will be asked for your identification and your insurance card. You will also need to update your medical history and list any medications once a year. Knowing your medical history is important because certain health conditions and medications can affect your oral health and influence treatment decisions. It is important for your oral health to keep up with these dental visits every six months.
Oral Examination
At your dental appointment, the hygienist will begin with a thorough visual inspection of your mouth. The hygienist will look for cavities, gum inflammation, plaque buildup, and signs of oral diseases. Your hygienist will also check your tongue, cheeks, and throat for abnormalities, which can help detect serious issues like oral cancer.
Professional cleaning
These are the steps taken by the hygienist during your cleaning:
- Initial exam: The hygienist will check the condition of your teeth and gums.
- X-rays: If it has been a year or other problems are detected, x-rays are taken before the cleaning. X-rays are used to check for cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth.
- Scaling: The hygienist will use an ultrasonic scaler or a hand tool to remove plaque from the tooth surface. This process is usually painless, unless you have irritation in your gums.
- Polishing: Polishing paste is used to remove stains and clean your teeth with a rotating brush.
- Flossing: Flossing will clean the difficult-to-reach areas in between the teeth.
- Fluoride treatment (optional): This treatment will strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
- Dentist check-up: When the cleaning is finished, the dentist will check the teeth and gums and examine x-rays.
Discussion and Advice
- The doctor will discuss his findings with you when your examination is finished. The doctor will explain any concerns, suggest treatments if necessary, and answer your questions. This is a good time to ask about brushing irregularities, flossing techniques, or other oral concerns.
- Listen carefully to what your dentist is explaining to you, especially if the dentist has concerns. Make sure to ask the appropriate questions about any future treatments, alternatives, and appointments.
If the dentist has concerns during your visit, such as cavities or gum disease, the dentist will offer you a treatment plan. It is important that you understand clearly what the dentist’s treatment plan suggests. Remember to ask questions, including whether there are alternative treatment options. Before your next appointment, the office will discuss costs, insurance coverage, and scheduling options.
Reach out for support
In a regular dentist’s visit, expect a professional teeth cleaning. You might also have X-rays taken to look for bone loss, cavities, or impacted teeth. Expect a discussion with your dentist about your visit and a treatment plan, if needed. Please contact our office if you have any questions or for an appointment.