As a general rule, it is recommended that patients see the dentist every six months for a checkup. If you brush and floss consistently, you may feel like these visits are unnecessary. However, the cleanings and examinations performed during these appointments help ensure that your oral health is in good condition and also allow you to bring up any concerns you may have. Problems such as TMJ, gum disease, missing teeth, and more can be addressed during your appointment. You can visit Park Dental Arts in San Diego, CA, for a preventive care checkup.
Read more: Checkups And Cleanings Keep Your Smile HealthyRemoving Plaque Buildup
During your appointment, your dental team will use special tools to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar that can harden on your tooth’s surface. This helps reduce the chance of cavities developing and can leave your pearly whites feeling clean. After your teeth have been cleaned, they will be polished. This additional step prevents bacteria from sticking to the surface of your teeth. If your dentist notices that any areas may be getting missed during your at-home hygiene routine, they will give you helpful tips on how to improve this.
Examining Your Smile
Along with your cleaning, your dentist may also take X-rays of your oral cavity. Depending on your needs, these may be done more often. Typically, these are done once a year, but they may be taken more frequently depending on your needs. For instance, patients who frequently develop cavities or are at risk of periodontal disease may have X-rays taken every six months. These images help get a closer look at your smile to see problems such as decay, misalignment, and bone loss. If your dentist has any concerns, they can use X-ray images and symptoms noticed during your cleaning to develop a helpful treatment plan. If tooth decay is noticed, for example, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment for an extra boost of protection or dental fillings to repair the area after a cavity has been formed.
Talk To Your Dentist About Your Concerns
These twice-yearly appointments also serve as an opportunity for you to ask questions. For instance, if you have noticed symptoms such as waking up with headaches or jaw pain, you can bring this up to your dentist. This side effect, combined with symptoms they may see during your examination, may be signs of TMJ disorder. If your smile is healthy but not as bright or symmetrical as you would like, you can ask your dentist about cosmetic improvements for your needs. They can help guide you through your options that will help address your specific needs.
Schedule Your Checkup Today
Biannual dental checkups can prevent common problems and improve your oral health. To schedule your next visit, please call our office in San Diego, CA, at (619) 544-1745.
