Adult
Taking the time to visit a dentist on a regular basis is an important component of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Over time, those who fail to take care of their teeth can run into major problems. From cavities to abscesses to serious tooth decay, failure to take care of your teeth can lead to expensive treatment or even the loss or removal of teeth. That is why you should schedule an appointment to get a dental exam every six months. If you have not visited the dentist recently, here is what you can expect.
X-Rays
If you have not had any dental x-rays performed recently, you can expect your dental hygienist to take x-ray images of your teeth. Most dentists like to perform x-rays every year. This involves using low levels of radiation to expose a film that creates an image of your mouth so that your dentist can diagnose problems with the teeth, including cavities, impacted teeth, and general tooth decay.
Teeth Cleaning
Most dentists clean your teeth during every exam. This involves more than simply brushing your teeth. The hygienist will utilize a metal scraper to clean any plaque that has accumulated since your last visit. Plaque houses bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease if not addressed. Additionally, your dental hygienist will use floss to remove any food or other residual particles that are between your teeth. Also, regular cleaning will include polishing, which improves whiteness and decreases the chance of gum disease, cavities, and infection.
Consultation
At the end of your dental checkup, you will have a consultation with your dentist. At this point in your visit, if you’ve had x-rays performed, your dentist will discuss their results with you. Should he or she find any problems with your x-rays, you will find out now. Additionally, your dentist will carefully check any potential problem spots that might be cavities. If you have only one or two cavities, you might find yourself getting them filled at this point. However, your dentist might decide that you need to make a future appointment to complete any fillings or other follow-up work that is necessary.
Schedule a Dentist Appointment
If you are due to visit a dentist for teeth cleaning and a checkup, be sure to book an appointment with our Plantation dentist or Tamarac dentist locations. We are committed to helping you maintain a healthy mouth for years to come. Give us a call today!
September 17, 2021