Besides brushing and flossing, the American Dental Association recommends everyone visits their dentist in Lawrenceville at least twice a year to keep their smiles healthy. Despite this advice, 42% of adults don’t see their dentist as often as they should. Whether from time constraints, dental related-anxieties, or embarrassment, it’s never too late to schedule an appointment. If it has been a while since your last visit, you might be a bit apprehensive. There isn’t any reason to worry. Here’s what you can expect during your next preventive appointment.
1. Review Your Medical History
Your oral and general health are connected, which is why your dental team will take the time to update your medical information. They’ll ask about any illnesses or surgeries you’ve had, as well as changes to medications.
2. Complete Dental Cleaning
No matter how well you brush and floss, there are still areas in your mouth you can’t clean on your own. A regular cleaning removes the buildup to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Since it has been a while since your last cleaning, it might take a bit longer than usual. Your dental hygienist will also discuss your current oral hygiene habits to make any recommendations for improvement to keep your smile healthy in between your appointments.
3. New Dental X-Rays
Your dental team will take X-rays of your mouth to give your dentist a complete picture of your oral health. They’ll review the images to look for any concerns that might be lingering below the surface of your gum tissue, like an infection. New technology allows the images to be taken digitally, so you won’t need to worry about biting on uncomfortable film strips.
4. Comprehensive Checkup
Besides reviewing the X-rays, your dentist will also perform a comprehensive dental checkup. They will examine your teeth and gums to look for any abnormalities, like weakened enamel or gum disease. They will look at all your oral tissues and structures to detect any issues while they are still small to prevent them from worsening.
5. Personalized Treatment Plan
After completing your checkup, your dentist will create a customized treatment plan. If they have found a problem during your examination, they’ll recommend having it treated immediately to prevent it from turning into a bigger issue. They will also develop a strategy to protect your teeth and gums from future complications to save money down the road.
Don’t Wait to Visit Your Dentist
If you’ve skipped a couple of preventive visits, don’t be embarrassed. Your dentist will treat you with compassion and integrity to help you reach your oral health goals.
About Dr. Bruce E. Carter
Dr. Carter strives to provide one-on-one attention for each patient. He earned his dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He has completed advanced training in many specialties, like cosmetic dentistry. He focuses on prevention to help his patients achieve the beautiful, healthy smiles they deserve. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.