How often do you visit your dentist? Is it every 5 or 6 months? Do you make excuses for not going to your dentist for a check-up? You're not the only one.
How often do you visit your dentist? Is it every five or six months? Do you keep making excuses for not visiting your dentist for a check-up? You're not alone. Fifty percent of all American adults have anxiety about visiting their dentists,
and many of them refuse to go at all. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about dental check-ups.
Visit Your Dental Provider Twice a Year
Individuals with good oral health will probably need to visit their dental providers for dental cleanings and check-ups twice a year. People with higher treatment needs will need dental check-ups more often. For instance, people with a weak immune system, gum disease, or a genetic predisposition for cavities or plaque build-up need to visit their dentists more frequently for optimal care.
Your Dental Provider Will Take Your Medical History
When you visit your dental provider for a check-up, he'll ask you questions about your health. He'll ask you about any problems that you have had with your teeth and mouth. He may also ask you questions about your tobacco and alcohol use, diet, and teeth-cleaning habits. It's important that you tell your dental provider about any medications that you are currently taking, any illnesses that you have, and any operations you have had in the past.
What Happens During the Exam
A dental examination allows your dental provider to see if you have any dental problems and it helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy. At each check-up, your dental provider should examine your gums, teeth, and mouth. He will check for problems that you may not feel or see. Remember that tooth decay doesn't cause pain or become visible until it reaches a more advanced stage. Your dental provider will also look for the signs of oral cancer and other illnesses and check for problems with your restorations such as crowns, braces, and fillings.
Dental X-rays Should Be Taken
X-rays should be taken during your check-up. They're an important part of any dental examination. X-rays provide a lot of detail and help to diagnose problems on the teeth. X-rays will also allow your dentist to check the health of the bone surrounding your teeth. Keep in mind that some oral health problems cannot be seen without an X-ray.
Don't Skip Your Next Dental Cleaning
You should get your teeth professionally cleaned when you visit your dentist for check-ups. You need to get your teeth cleaned at least twice a year. Although flossing and brushing helps to remove plaque, only a professional dental cleaning can remove the hardened plaque (tartar) that builds up on the teeth. Your dental provider will use a special instrument to scrape and remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. He will then polish your teeth with a rubber tool or brush to remove any stains or remaining plaque.
Make an Appointment Today
Oral health problems can happen to anyone, anytime. Even if you take good care of your teeth and gums, you still need to see your dental provider regularly. Your dental provider will make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.
