Regular visits to your dentist play a vital role in preventive healthcare. A checkup allows your dentist to assess for any dental problems and ensures your mouth is kept healthy. Otherwise, if oral problems are left untreated, they may require more invasive treatments later on.
Dental experts recommend seeing a dentist at least once every six months. Regular oral exams can ensure that any problems in the mouth – such as signs of decay – are detected early, thereby making them easier and quicker to treat. Your dentist will help you determine how often you should have a dental checkup based on your dental health and your overall health.
Benefits of Regular Dental Checkups
Along with practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis, regular dental visits are an important factor in your body’s overall health. During your dental appointment, the dentist and dental hygienist will check for:
- Cavities and signs of tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Signs of oral cancer or mouth abnormalities
- Issues with existing dental work, such as fillings and crowns
What Happens at a Dental Checkup?
Your first dental visit will include your dentist taking a thorough evaluation of your teeth along with an examination. The dentist will ask you about your general health and any medications you are taking, because these factors can affect your oral health.
At every appointment, your dentist will ask you about any problems you may have had with your teeth, mouth, or gums since your last dental visit. The dentist will also ask whether there have been any changes to your overall health or your medications.
X-rays may also be taken of your teeth in order to assess their structure and health. Dental X-rays are a quick and painless procedure, and they emit extremely small amounts of radiation. These X-rays are usually done once a year or so.
Getting a Professional Teeth Cleaning
During the dental appointment, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth. Your teeth will be cleaned using special instruments to manually remove any residual plaque or hardened tartar, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities.
Your teeth will then be flossed and polished. The teeth, gums, jaw, and neck area will be examined by the dentist for signs of decay, infection, gum disease, oral cancer, and any other oral health issues.
At the end of your checkup, your dentist may make recommendations for your home oral healthcare regimen. If you require further dental treatment, the dentist will let you know what to consider or what to expect. Be sure to keep all of your dental appointments in order to ensure healthy teeth and gums.
Family Dental Care in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota
If you are looking for comprehensive dental care for you and your family, Hagerman Dental Care is here for you. We offer a full range of dental services, including everything from general dentistry to cosmetic dentistry, in one convenient location on Minnehaha Avenue in St. Paul.
If you would like to find out more about our services or to book an appointment with Dr. Hagerman, call us today at (651) 646-2392 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to seeing you here!