The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

A dental checkup is more than just a quick glance at your pearly whites. It's a comprehensive examination of your entire oral cavity, including your teeth, gums, and even the tissues in and around your mouth. During these appointments, dentists thoroughly assess the health of each tooth and evaluate any potential issues that may be lurking beneath the surface.

But it doesn't stop there! A dental checkup also involves professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing may miss. Think of it as a refreshing spa day for your mouth – except instead of cucumbers on your eyes, you get minty-fresh fluoride treatments.

Why Are Dental Checkups Important?

Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. This examination helps identify any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. By catching these problems early on, you can avoid more invasive procedures down the line. During a dental checkup, your dentist will also perform a professional cleaning. This involves removing plaque buildup and tartar from your teeth – something that cannot be achieved through regular brushing alone. Getting rid of these accumulations helps prevent cavities and keeps your gums healthy. Furthermore, dental checkups give you the opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions with your dentist. Whether it's about pain or sensitivity in your mouth or inquiries about cosmetic dentistry options like teeth whitening, they can provide expert advice tailored to your specific needs. In addition to addressing immediate concerns, regular checkups contribute to long-term preventative care by establishing a baseline for comparison over time.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

During a dental checkup, your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth to assess the overall health of your teeth and gums. The first step usually involves taking X-rays to get a clear picture of what's happening beneath the surface. This helps identify any issues like cavities or hidden infections that may not be visible to the naked eye. Next, your dentist will carefully examine each tooth, checking for signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems. They will also look for any abnormalities in the soft tissues of your mouth, including potential signs of oral cancer.

If necessary, your dentist may perform a professional cleaning known as scaling and polishing. This involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along the gumline using specialized tools. Your dentist may also provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your specific needs. They can answer any questions you have regarding maintaining good oral hygiene at home. Additionally, during a dental checkup, it is common for dentists to screen for sleep apnea or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders if there are symptoms present.

To learn more, contact PS Dental at 12017 SW 70th Ave, Tigard, OR 97223, or call (503) 5744000 to schedule a consultation!