Dental professionals recommend that patients of all ages receive a checkup and cleaning every six months. This blog details why dental checkups form the cornerstone of oral health and what typically happens during these visits.
Why Dental Checkups Are Crucial to Your Oral Health
The primary goal of a dental checkup is to track the patient's oral health and discover any potential issues that need attention. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, helping to prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
Additional benefits of preventive dental care include:
- Detecting signs of cavities and gum disease early while treating them is more manageable.
- Checking for signs of oral cancer, which is more treatable at early stages and can go undetected in patients who do not receive regular dental care.
- Checking the health of previous restorations like fillings, crowns, and root canals.
- Providing home oral hygiene advice and instruction to maintain your smile.
Steps in a Typical Dental Checkup
Evaluation
Your hygienist will perform an initial evaluation, checking for potential problems and the overall health of your smile.
Digital X-Rays
The next step is digital imaging. Typically, dentists recommend X-rays only once per year unless there is cause for concern. Digital X-rays use a fraction of the radiation of older methods.
Scaling
Your hygienist will use a scaler to remove all traces of plaque and tartar (calculus) from your teeth. They may use a metal instrument, a water-powered scaler, or an ultrasonic device to remove buildup.
Polishing
Next, your hygienist will apply a gritty but gentle polish using a rotating brush. This step cleans away surface stains and leaves the teeth shiny and smooth.
Flossing
Your hygienist flosses and checks the contacts between your teeth. If necessary, they may provide instructions on proper flossing techniques.
Dentist Evaluation
After your cleaning, your dentist will visit to check your overall oral health. They will review any X-ray images and determine the necessity of further treatment. They will also check for signs of oral cancer.
Maintaining a Consistent Schedule for Oral Health Care
Keeping a consistent preventive care schedule is vital to your oral health. Even if it has been some time since you received a dental checkup and cleaning, we welcome you to our practice. It's never too late to get back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Checkups
Why is tartar so essential to remove from my teeth?
Tartar or calculus is a hard, cement-like substance that forms from plaque and food particles. When it collects at and below the gumline, it excretes bacterial waste that gradually breaks down the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss.
When should I start bringing my child to dental checkups?
Dentists recommend that children have their first dental visit by age one and continue visiting every six months. Pediatric care is vital to a child's lifetime oral health.
At Vantage Pointe Dental, we believe in the power of preventive care. If you would like to schedule a routine cleaning and exam, please contact our Broomfield, CO, office. We look forward to meeting you!
