What Happens During a Dental Visit?
First, it is important to find a dentist with whom you feel comfortable. Once you’ve found a dentist you like, your next step is to schedule a check-up — before any problems arise.
On your first visit to us, we will take a full health history. On subsequent visits, if your health status has changed, make sure to tell them.
Most dental visits are checkups. Regular checkups (ideally every six months) will help your teeth stay cleaner, last longer and can prevent painful problems from developing.
- A thorough cleaning
Checkups almost always include a complete cleaning. Using special instruments, we will scrape below the gumline, removing built-up plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease, cavities, bad breath and other problems. We also polish and floss your teeth. - A full examination
We will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums and mouth, looking for signs of disease or other problems. Our goal is to help maintain your good oral health and to prevent problems from becoming serious, by identifying and treating them as soon as possible. - X-rays
Depending on your age, risks of disease and symptoms, we may recommend X-rays. X-rays can diagnose problems otherwise unnoticed, such as damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, and decay between the teeth. We use machines that emit virtually no radiation — no more than you would receive from a day in the sun or a weekend watching TV. As a precaution, you should always wear a lead apron when having an X-ray. And, if you are pregnant, inform us, as X-rays should only be taken in emergency situations.
We may ask for a Panoramic X-ray, or Panorex. This type of film provides a complete view of your upper and lower jaw in a single picture, and helps the dentist understand your bite and the relationship between the different teeth and your arch.
How Long Should I go Between Visits?
If your teeth and gums are in good shape, you probably won’t need to return for three to six months. If further treatment is required — say to fill a cavity, remove a wisdom tooth, or repair a broken crown — you should make an appointment before leaving the clinic. And don’t forget to ask us any questions you may have —this is your chance to get the answers you need.