Regular dental checkups are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. While most of us visit the dentist twice a year for these appointments, life can get in the way sometimes. 

It is important to make it a priority to visit your dentist for a check-in every six months. And since it’s June (six months from the start of the year), we thought it was the perfect time to remind you. 🙂 

We are also going to take you behind the scenes and shed light on the important procedures that take place during a typical dental checkup!

Welcoming and Updating Medical History

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the dental team. They will ask you to update your medical history, including any changes in medication, allergies, or existing oral health issues. 

Providing accurate information ensures that your dentist has a comprehensive understanding of your overall health.

Examination and Evaluation

After gathering your medical history, the dental hygienist or dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your oral cavity. This evaluation includes checking your teeth, gums, tongue, and throat. The dentist will use various tools, including a dental mirror and probe, to examine your teeth for signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health concerns.

Depending on their evaluation, your dentist may recommend dental x-rays. These x-rays provide a detailed view of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures, allowing the dentist to detect any hidden issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, or bone loss. Dental x-rays are safe and essential for diagnosing and treating dental problems.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

One of the highlights of a dental checkup is the professional teeth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist. Using specialized tools, the hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. 

They will also clean the hard-to-reach areas that regular brushing and flossing may miss. This process, known as scaling and polishing, leaves your teeth feeling clean, smooth, and free of stains.

Your dentist will also assess the health of your gums during the checkup. They will measure the depth of the spaces between your gums and teeth using a periodontal probe. This helps determine if you have any signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis or periodontitis. 

Sometimes, your dental checkup may include an oral cancer screening. This is a quick and painless examination of your mouth, throat, and neck where the dentist will look for any unusual lumps, sores, or discoloration that could indicate the presence of oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment and outcomes.

Discussion and Education

Once the examination is complete, your dentist will discuss their findings with you. They will explain any issues or concerns they identified and recommend appropriate treatment options. 

This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, seek advice on oral hygiene practices, and discuss any dental goals you may have!

Schedule Your Dental Checkup Now – We Miss You!

Dental checkups are more than just a routine visit to the dentist’s office. They involve a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, from examining your teeth and gums to assessing the risk of oral cancer. These checkups not only help maintain healthy teeth and gums but also allow for early detection and treatment of potential problems. 

At Crown Dental, we make every effort to ensure that we create a warm and welcoming environment for each one of our patients. We know that a trip to the dentist can elicit feelings of apprehension and anxiety in even the coolest customer. 

That’s why we strategize how best to deliver an experience that educates, reassures, and provides the right solutions for our clients! Schedule your next appointment with us today!