How often should you visit the dentist for a check-up?
On average, one should visit a dentist a couple of times yearly. Some dentists will require more frequent visits due to being labeled at a higher risk, such as those that
- Smoke
- Diabetics
- Weak immune systems
- Presently have gum disease
- Those that simply have plaque that builds up on their teeth in a faster manner than most.
Regular teeth cleaning appointments assist in detecting problems early on. It is important to note that even after completing a dental cleaning, that plaque begins to reform on one’s teeth less than 48 hours later. Proper daily cleaning, which includes flossing, can keep most plaque in check. However, some build up is inevitable, and therefore, must be removed by the tools utilized by a dentist.
During an exam, a dentist can identify signs of oral cancer, cavities, and receding gums. Of note, gum disease is linked to cardiovascular disease, and thus, a dental appointment can lower the chances that one will have a heart attack or stroke.
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A Typical Dental Check-Up
Step 1: During a dental check-up, one will be escorted to a dental chair, and be fitted with a bib to protect the clothing.
Step 2: The hygienist will have one fill out their medical history, and next take your blood pressure. The ambience is relaxing, since one can watch television in the chair while they wait on their dental cleaning to begin.
Once per year, one will have x-rays taken and reviewed by the dentist to make certain everything is in line, or if a potential issue has been discovered.
Step 3: The dental hygienist then moves the chair back and begins to work on your teeth. For the most part, a lot of picking is completed using a dental instrument with a hook at the end that chips away at any plaque buildup.
Technology is such today that one can get through the cleaning a bit quicker.If the buildup is too tough for a dental instrument, the hygienist will revert to a drill that shoots out water while cleaning the tooth painlessly.
Step 4: Once it is determined that your teeth are in good shape, the hygienist will floss your teeth, and follow that up with a final cleaning.
Step 5: After the cleaning, the hygienist will provide a fluoride treatment, and one is almost ready to go.
Step 6: All that is left is for the dentist to do a spot check of the work, review the x-rays, and if all is well, one sets an appointment for their next appointment.