As soon as we start to grow baby teeth, we begin visiting our dentists on a regular basis. In adulthood, our lives might be busier, and we might wonder if we need to see our dentist so frequently. To maximize your preventative dental care, you should visit your dentist for routine exams and teeth cleanings.
But what occurs during this dental work that is so crucial for our oral health? Read on to learn more about how regular dental care at your dentist’s office will help you keep your smile healthy.
What Happens During a Routine Dentist Appointment?
When you visit your dentist for a routine appointment, your dentist starts by cleaning your teeth and gums. They do this by scraping away plaque and tartar build-up in tricky spots of the mouth that your toothbrush cannot always reach, like near the gumline. This stops plaque from eating away at your dental structure and causing permanent damage.
The dentist will also perform an oral exam during this check-up. They examine your teeth and gums and look for early signs of potential problems like cavities and gum disease. Then they can provide swift treatment before these issues worsen and cause irreversible harm to your smile, such as tooth loss.
These visits also provide good opportunities to ask questions about your oral health. Your dentist can offer advice about at-home care and address cosmetic concerns about your smile as well if you like.
How Often Should I Schedule Dental Check-Ups?
The average dental patient should schedule a check-up with their dentist every six months. This establishes an ideal window where the dentist can clean plaque before it can hurt your smile. And they can find early signs of cavities and other problems and provide treatment before they cause lasting damage.
But some patients might need to see their dentist more frequently than this. Senior patients, those with a higher propensity for tartar, and people with underlying medical issues may need to visit the dentist’s office three or four times a year. Consult with your dentist to find a preventative dental care plan that best suits your needs.
What Do I Do During a Dental Emergency?
Even with diligent preventative dental care, we might suffer an accident that can impact our oral health. If this occurs, do not wait until your next routine appointment to seek help from your dentist. Call your dentist as soon as possible if you sustain a dental injury or another type of emergency.
The problem could worsen if you delay urgent dental treatment. For instance, if you knock out a tooth, your dentist might be able to put it back in place if you respond quickly. The dentist will likely have you attend an emergency dental appointment to amend the issue.
Even if you have a question or concern about a more minor dental problem, you can contact your dentist about it. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your oral health.