What to Expect During Your Dental Check-Up Exam and Cleaning

Dental check-up visits to the dentist include carefully cleaning and examining the teeth to keep them in excellent condition. During such visits, it is advisable to know what to expect to feel more comfortable during the appointment. The dentist will handle and supervise the exam and cleaning process.

The dental check-up process and examination

If it is the first visit to the dentist, they will record the patient’s entire health history for reference. For subsequent visits, patients need to mention any changes they may have noticed. After that, dental professionals typically recommend going for check-ups every six months.

During a dental check-up, the dentist will examine each tooth carefully. They might use dental tools to check the sides of the teeth hidden from view. The physical check helps rule out abnormalities around the oral cavity. The dentist may also use the scraper to clean off the plaque that may be present on the teeth during the examination. The process is straightforward. They may also feel each of the teeth to ensure no looseness or tenderness.

Other oral cavity structures, including the gums, will also be examined to identify signs of diseases or other developing issues. The objective is to help patients maintain good oral health and catch minor issues before they become serious. Early diagnosis and treatment of oral issues save time and cost.

Dental cleaning process

The cleaning process completed in the dental office is easy and painless. Professional cleaning is thorough and targets all the areas of the mouth that are often missed during normal brushing at home. Some people brush their teeth properly, but there are hard-to-reach areas where debris builds up, causing hardened plaque. Hardened plaque, called tartar, is also hard to clean with toothbrushes. The dentist will clean the teeth and gums to remove all particles that might cause issues for the teeth or gums.

The professional tools used by the dentist clean better than toothbrushes and toothpaste used by patients at home. The dentist will also floss the teeth to clean the areas between the teeth. Clean teeth and gums are important for good oral health and general well-being. The dental professional can also provide tips on correctly cleaning the teeth.

Dental x-rays

If the dentist thinks additional examination is necessary, they may recommend dental x-rays. This will reveal invisible problems to the naked eye, such as jawbone issues, impacted teeth, cysts or tumors, abscesses, and decay between teeth. However, the X-rays used in modern dental offices emit low radiation and are hardly a cause for concern. A common type of dental X-ray is the panoramic X-ray, which provides a full image of the upper and lower teeth and jaw in one image.

In summary

Dental check-up exams and cleanings are normal and necessary to keep the patient’s oral health in optimal condition. Knowing what to expect during the dental appointment can help relieve your apprehension about the visit. To get answers about dental check-ups and the process involved, call our Milwaukie office at {{PHONE}} today.

FAQs

The following are commonly asked questions about dental checkups and cleaning:

How much does a dental check-up cost?

The cost of the dental check-up depends on the extent of your dental coverage and the treatments offered during the visit. Depending on your dental insurance, you may not have to pay for regular cleaning. Your plan may also expect a copayment when you make your appointment.

If your dentist suggests that you have any extra dental work done, they will give you a quote beforehand. A dental plan will often pay for some of the costs associated with dental care. If you want to keep the price of your dental exam to a minimum, review your plan documentation ahead of time to see exactly what services are covered.

What should I expect if I have a dental issue?

If your dentist notices anything out of the ordinary during your dental check-up, they will immediately let you know. In most cases, they may suggest further treatment. Alternatively, they might refer patients for specialist care if they do not offer the service.

How often should I see the dentist for check-ups?

If you want to keep your teeth and gums in good shape and catch any issues early, you should see a dentist at least once a year. Tartar buildup may lead to serious tooth complications. Therefore, it is a good idea to have a dental check-up and cleaning at least once or twice a year to prevent costly dental issues.

Request an appointment here: https://compassiondentistry.com or call Compassion Family Dentistry at (503) 445-9579 for an appointment in our Milwaukie office.

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