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What To Expect From Your Next Checkup At The Dentist

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‍If you’re like most people, going to the dentist probably isn’t at the top of your list of favourite things to do. But regular dental checkups are essential for keeping your teeth healthy and avoiding costly and painful dental problems down the road.

Knowing what to expect from your next checkup can help put you at ease and ensure that you get the most out of your appointment. With the right preparation and a little knowledge, you can make sure your next checkup at the dentist is as stress-free as possible.

What is a dental checkup?

A dental checkup is an appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist to assess the health of your teeth and gums and make sure that no problems are developing. 

During a checkup, your dentist or hygienist will assess your overall oral condition while looking for tell-tale signs of common problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and other conditions. They may also use a variety of methods to look for other issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

The goal of a dental checkup is to identify potential problems early so that they can be treated before they become serious. Regular checkups can also help prevent cavities and other dental problems from happening in the first place.

Benefits of regular dental checkups

Regular checkups are the key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. They can help your dentist or hygienist spot problems that you might not be aware of, such as cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer. By catching these issues early, your dentist can treat them before they become more serious and costly to fix.

Many people don’t realise there is a close correlation between dental health and your overall health. The health and condition of your teeth and gums can be an indication of your overall general health and may even signal the potential for more serious issues such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and stroke. 

If you have a dental infection, you may need urgent medical attention as the infection can transmit to other parts of the body causing serious problems. So by having your regular check-up, you’re not just looking after your teeth, you are taking care of your overall health.

Regular checkups can also help you save money in the long run. By catching small problems early, your dentist can often fix them quickly and easily, saving you the cost of more extensive treatments down the road.

What to expect during your dental checkup

During your dental checkup, your dentist or hygienist will use a variety of tests and techniques to assess the health of your teeth and gums. They may take X-rays to look for cavities, use a special instrument to check for plaque, and perform a thorough cleaning to remove any tartar buildup. Your dentist may also check for signs of gum disease and oral cancer, and advise you on the best ways to care for your teeth.

1. X-rays and taking of digital records

X-rays are an important part of a dental checkup. They can help your dentist detect problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye. X-rays can detect cavities, abscesses, and other issues that can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.

During your checkup, your dentist may take one or more X-rays. The type of X-ray depends on what your dentist is looking for. For example, a panoramic X-ray can show the entire mouth (recommended every 5-8 years), while bitewing X-rays can show signs of cavities between the teeth (recommended every 1-2 years).

2. Teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar

During a dental checkup, your dentist or hygienist will use a special instrument to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can build up on your teeth and cause decay. Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that can cause cavities and gum disease.

Removing plaque and tartar is an important part of keeping your teeth healthy. Your dentist or hygienist may use a hand-held instrument called a scaler to scrape away plaque and tartar buildup. They may also use an ultrasonic device to help loosen and remove plaque and tartar.

3. Checking for signs of gum disease or oral cancer

Your dentist or hygienist will also look for signs of gum disease and oral cancer during your checkup. Gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth. It can cause inflammation, pain, and tooth loss if left untreated.

Your dentist will look for signs of gum disease during your checkup, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums. They may also use a special instrument to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.

Your dentist may also check for signs of oral cancer, such as lumps or bumps in your mouth. They may take a biopsy if they suspect any areas that look suspicious.

4. Dental hygiene tips

During your checkup, your dentist or hygienist will likely give you some tips on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. They may recommend brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing once a day. They may also suggest using an electric toothbrush or special toothpaste to help remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Your dentist may also recommend that you come in for regular cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Preparing for your dental checkup is essential for getting the most out of your appointment. You should brush and floss your teeth before your appointment to help your dentist get a better view of your teeth and gums.

You should also make sure to bring any relevant medical documents or X-rays to your appointment. This can help your dentist get a better understanding of your dental history and make sure they are up to date on any changes that have occurred.

How to Find a Good Dentist

Finding a good dentist is key to getting the most out of your dental checkup. It’s important to find someone who is experienced, knowledgeable and has a good bedside manner.

You can start by asking for recommendations from friends and family members. You can also read online reviews to get a better sense of what previous patients have experienced with a particular dentist.

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, you can make an appointment to meet with each dentist to get a better sense of their office, staff, and approach to treatment.

Stop Putting Off Your Next Dentist Checkup

Your next dental checkup doesn’t need to be a stressful event. In fact, it can be a great opportunity for you and your dentist to discuss the health of your teeth and gums and make sure there are no underlying problems developing. 

With the right preparation and a little knowledge, you can ensure that your next checkup at the dentist is a breeze and feel confident that your teeth, and your overall health, are in optimum condition.

If you haven’t had a checkup in a while, and think now is the time, we would love to help. Simply give us a call on 03 9593 1811 or fill in our enquiry form, and our friendly team will be in touch to organise your consultation.

Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.

 

Services we mentioned:

General Dental Health Examination and Hygiene

Dentures

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Great experience! Dr Warren is a great dentist who is gentle and really experienced. He has a great bedside manner that puts patients at ease!

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Great experience! Dr Warren is a great dentist who is gentle and really experienced. He has a great bedside manner that puts patients at ease!

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Dr Warren Antonoff is the best dentist we’ve ever worked with, the clinic is clean with friendly staff. Waiting time was short, and the care taken into his work is top-notch. Will be using Lifestyle Smiles for the years to come.

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