Regular Dental Checkup

How often should I visit the dentist for a checkup?

Most dentists recommend having a dental checkup every six months to ensure optimal oral health. However, depending on your specific dental needs, we might suggest a different schedule.

What can I expect during a dental checkup?

During a regular dental checkup, your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth, looking for signs of disease or other problems. A professional cleaning will also be done to remove any plaque or tartar build-up.

Is a dental checkup painful?

No, a dental checkup is generally painless. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, let your dentist know so they can take extra care during your visit.

Why are brushing and flossing important?

We all know brushing and flossing make our mouth feel great. But, brushing and flossing do more than freshen breath – they physically disrupt the complex network of bacteria called a biofilm. It’s important to disrupt and remove the sticky film so diseases like cavities and gum disease are less likely to happen. There are a lot of products on the market that claim they are the best. Make sure to talk about the options with your hygienist to get the best recommendation.

And as you know, it is important to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once. If you have a hard time remembering to floss, connect it with a daily activity you always do. You can floss in the shower or while driving to work!

What are other preventative dental care strategies?

Besides having your teeth cleaned and stain polished off, our comfortable dental cleaning also provides other preventative services, such as:

Dental Sealants — Deep grooves and pits in your back teeth are at a higher risk of cavities. Placing a protective sealant over these surfaces makes them easier to clean and lowers your chances of developing tooth decay.

Fluoride Treatment — Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, fights sensitivity, and reverses the earliest stage of tooth decay (demineralization.) Dental insurance typically covers fluoride treatments for children, but our adult patients can take advantage of the service for only $29.

Oral Cancer Screenings — This deadly disease is linked to viruses like HPV, sun exposure, and tobacco/alcohol use. Early screening could save your life. We complete a cancer exam as part of every checkup appointment.

Diagnostic X-rays — Intermittent X-rays allow us to identify new areas of decay or bone loss around your teeth, so that we can treat them in the least invasive manner before they become worse.