What Should You Expect at a Regular Dental Visit?
Dental visits are very important to maintaining oral health and hygiene. Dental visits are essential for keeping plaque and tartar from building too far, preventing gum disease and cavities, and identifying potential serious issues early. Dental visits also keep your smile looking beautiful and your teeth clean. If you are preparing for a dental visit, you may be wondering what you should expect. Read on to learn more about dental visits so you are prepared for your visit.
Arrival and Check-In
When you first arrive at the dental office, you’ll likely be asked to fill out some paperwork, if you weren’t asked to do so ahead of time. If it’s your first visit, the forms may ask for basic information about your medical history, current medications, and any allergies. It’s important to be thorough and honest on these forms to ensure your dentist can provide the best care possible. If you're returning, the office may ask if there have been any changes to your health or dental history since your last visit.
Initial Examination
Once you’re in the treatment room, the dentist or dental hygienist will usually start by reviewing your medical and dental history. The next step is the dental examination. Your dentist will look inside your mouth, checking for signs of cavities, gum disease, or any other potential issues. They’ll examine your teeth, gums, and surrounding areas to make sure everything is healthy. If necessary, your dentist may take X-rays to get a better look at the areas that are difficult to examine with the naked eye, such as between your teeth or below the gumline.
Professional Cleaning
After the examination, your dental hygienist will perform a professional cleaning. This is an important part of the dental visit, because it helps remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach. The cleaning process typically involves three main steps:
- Scaling: The hygienist will use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
- Polishing: After scaling, the hygienist will polish your teeth using a gritty toothpaste to remove surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
- Flossing: The hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned.
Additional Treatments
Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend additional treatments or procedures such as:
- Treating Issues: if you have cavities or other dental issues, they may schedule a follow-up appointment for fillings or other restorative treatments. If you’re at risk for gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning or other periodontal treatments to keep your gums healthy.
- Fluoride: For some people, fluoride is an important part of their dental care. It can help protect your teeth and make them stronger.
After the Visit
Once the cleaning and examination are complete, the dentist will provide you with an overview of your oral health. If there were any issues discovered during the exam, the dentist will discuss them with you and recommend appropriate next steps. If everything looks healthy, your dentist will likely schedule your next cleaning, usually within six months, and may remind you of the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and good oral hygiene habits.