Oral hygiene is essential to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases and promote your health’s overall well-being.
Have you signed up for regular dental checkup and cleaning? Wondering what’ll be included during your cleaning and checkup schedule.
We’re here to explain that to you!
In this article, we’ve curated all the common questions that patients ask before their first checkup and cleaning schedule.
Don’t worry if you’re anxious during your first visits and need to undergo any treatment. Your dentist will suggest sedation dentistry to keep you relaxed during your entire visit.
Keep reading to get your queries answered!
How Often Do You Need To Book Your Dental Checkup and Cleaning Appointment?
It is recommended to visit your dentist twice a year for regular dental checkups and cleaning. In a generic dental checkup, both your hygienist and dentist will see you.
The hygienist will perform dental cleaning and polishing and give you suggestions about caring for your teeth, overall dental hygiene, and answering any queries you might have.
Then your dentist will review the cleaning performed by the hygienist, conduct an in-depth gum and teeth examination for diagnosing any oral health problems.
If required, your dentist might recommend oral X-rays and a treatment plan. Checkups are essential not just for a dental cleaning but to diagnose any oral issues at an early stage.
Why Do You Need A Bi-Yearly Cleaning And Checkup Appointment?
It’s crucial to visit your dentist 2 times a year for dental checkup and cleaning due to the following reasons:
- So that your dental professionals can examine and diagnose any concerns that you might not feel or see.
- Allows your dentist or hygienist to detect early signs of decay (tooth decay isn’t generally visible or painful until it reaches advanced stages).
- Treat and assess any other dental conditions detected in your previous visit. Generally, early detection reduces complexities and makes your treatment process manageable.
Will You Need More Frequent Or Less Frequent Dental Visits?
Going for dental appointments twice a year works perfectly for most individuals. However, you might need to visit your dentist more if you have any of the following conditions:
- Existing or history of gum disease
- Family history of cavities or plaque formation
- A weakened immune system
- History of experiencing certain drastic life events — especially those leading to stress or illness. Under such conditions, changes in the mouth or infection might occur.
Similarly, if you regularly follow strict dental hygiene, take excellent care of your oral health, have no dental concerns that have cropped up for many years, you might be eligible for less frequent dental visits.
Discuss with your dental professional what appointment schedule works best for you.
Also Read: 3 Essential Things To Know About Professional Teeth Whitening Services
What Important Details Do You Need To Share During Your First Dental Appointment?
If you’re visiting a new dentist or going for your first dental checkup and cleaning appointment, you’ll need to discuss a few additional details. Your dentist needs to know about your current oral health and past conditions to easily identify any changes or problems during your future visits.
Before your dentist or hygienist starts your oral examination or cleaning, you’ll require to discuss the following:
Medical History Or Any Ongoing Medications
Certain health conditions such as auto-immune disorders or diabetes can increase your chances of developing dental diseases. Some medications might direct the need for alternate dental sedation. A complete medical history is necessary to prevent any drug interactions and prevent worsening of any condition.
Current Oral Health
Don’t hesitate to inform your dental professional if you feel you have developed a new cavity, experiencing sensitive teeth, or feel any lumps and generic oral health concerns. This information may allow your dentist to make an early diagnosis.
Dental Anxiety And Fears
Inform your dentists if you experience anxiety or fear while sitting on the dental chair or before any procedure. Your dentist will suggest appropriate sedation dentistry for your condition.
What’s Included In Dental Check And Cleaning Appointment?
A dental hygienist or dentist will initiate your dental checkup. It includes:
- Using various specialised tools and instruments for removing tartar and plaque deposition from your gum line and the teeth surface.
- Teeth polishing and, if necessary, fluoride treatment
- Report the initial findings
- Order X-rays if deemed necessary
After your initial cleaning is done, your dentist will do the following:
- Overall teeth and gum checkup
- Assessment of your soft palate, throat and neck, checking for any anomalies
- Review the X-rays (if taken).
- Recommend any additional dental treatment required for maintaining oral health
- Discuss your overall dental hygiene and habits
Ensure to visit a credible, qualified, and experienced dental professional for optimal results.
