As you’re probably aware, it is recommended that you go for a regular dental checkup at least once every six months, says TheConversation. In some cases you may need to go more frequently than that – but if so your dentist should let you know.
The reason regular dental checkups are so important is because they allow your dentist to check and see if you have any issues. If you do go for a checkup every six months, odds are issues will be caught early on and can be treated before they get any worse.
Normally during any regular dental checkup there are a few things that will happen:
- Medical history check
Before starting the checkup you are likely to be asked about your medical history. In particular any changes to your overall health will need to be documented, as well as any medication that you may be taking.
It is best to be thorough and divulge any details – no matter how small they may seem.
- Cleaning and polishing
In most cases before your teeth are actually checked the dentist or dental hygienist will clean them thoroughly. Typically that involves scraping off any plaque and tartar that may have accumulated, as well as flossing around each tooth and polishing them to get rid of the residue.
The reason why cleaning is normally done first is because it makes it easier for the dentist to check your teeth without anything getting in the way.
- Oral examination
After the cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will conduct an oral examination. At this point they will typically examine the teeth to look for signs of cavities, and check the tooth enamel too. On top of that the gums will be checked as well for signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding.
- Dental x-ray
Odds are you won’t need an x-ray at every appointment, but dentists tend to recommend that it is done at least once a year. The x-ray will show the condition of both the visible parts of your teeth as well as the roots and jawbone, according to ADA.
By inspecting the x-ray your dentist will be able to spot issues such as bone loss, fractures, jaw alignment, or oral cancer.
- Recommendations
Once everything is done, your dentist will go over the results and provide their recommendations. It is best if you pay close attention, and take on board any advice they may have.
If you have any questions this is the time to ask, and you should also book your next regular dental checkup right there and then too.
It doesn’t matter if you visit a dentist in Buckingham, such as https://claydondental.co.uk/, or anywhere else, as the procedure they follow should be relatively similar. At the end of the day the goal will be to thoroughly check your teeth, gums, and the rest of your mouth – and make sure everything is healthy.
Now that you know what to expect you should be able to identify exactly what your dentist is up to the next time you’re sitting in their chair.