The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings. This allows a qualified oral health professional to monitor your teeth and gums, address problems in their early stages, and suggest ways to improve your oral hygiene. However, some people neglect or forget to see their dentists for long periods of time, and someone might be anxious about an upcoming appointment if they haven’t had one in a while. Here’s a quick look at how dental exams and cleanings work for people who haven’t seen their dentists recently.
How Does a Dental Exam Work?
During your dental exam, your dentist will carefully evaluate your teeth and soft tissues to check for signs of injury, infection, and other concerns. They may gently test the teeth or soft tissues with their fingers or appropriate tools to make sure they are structurally sound or to check for abnormalities. This process will probably include an oral cancer screening and may involve X-rays to check for signs of trouble beneath the surface. Typically, one of your dentist’s staff members will check your blood pressure during the process.
How Does a Dental Cleaning Work?
After your exam, your dentist will carefully clean your teeth and gums using specialized tools before polishing your pearly whites with a professional-grade electric toothbrush and flossing them to clear any debris from the spaces between them. Some patients may also receive fluoride to reinforce their enamel. If you need any additional restorative treatments, your dentist may schedule them for a later date and may prescribe pain medications or antibiotics to keep you in good shape until then.
How Can I Prepare for My Dental Appointment?
If you are nervous about your upcoming dental appointment, you may be able to make the process easier by:
- Thoroughly cleaning your teeth beforehand: Enjoying a vigorous brushing and flossing session before your dental appointment can reduce how much plaque your dentist has to clean, which can set you up for a less intensive treatment process.
- Bringing a book: Enjoying a good read in your dentist’s waiting room can ease nervousness or anxiety.
- Over-the-counter pain medication: If you are concerned about discomfort, consider taking an over-the-counter pain medicine before your appointment. Be sure to adhere to the instructions printed on the label.
Don’t let anxiety about dental checkups set you up for horrific oral infections. Visiting your dentist regularly can help you keep your smile healthy, beautiful, and comfortable.
About the Author
Dr. JD Hansen earned his dental degree at the University of Louisville and completed his General Practice Residency at the University of Utah. His office in Cottonwood Heights offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next checkup, contact the office online or dial (801) 719-2113.