Routine dental checkups are important to diagnose dental health. For most of us, oral health is about 45 seconds to 1 minute spent in the morning with an inch of toothpaste on a brush. We all believe that our teeth will be free of disease if we complete this morning task. But dentists suggest that routine dental checkups are a must for a healthy, long-lasting smile.

What is Routine Dental Checkups?

No matter how carefully we brush our teeth, some mouth areas are hard to reach. Over time, these areas become the site for plague and cavity formation. If ignored for long, there is a risk of plaque, tartar, cavities, and tooth decay.

A routine dental checkup is a visit to the dentist’s office even if you are not facing any oral problems. Ideally, dentist visits include a thorough examination of the teeth and gums followed by cleansing.

What is a Dental Exam?

A dental exam is designed to evaluate the health of your teeth and gums. Ideally, the dentist should complete the examination within 30-45 minutes. And, a gentle reminder for all those who fear a dental visit, a dental exam is painless.

A dental exam is critical for maintaining good dental health.

Why Regular or Routine Dental Checkups are Important?

Brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and eating a nutritious diet are necessary for proper dental hygiene. However, this isn’t enough to want stronger teeth and healthier gums.

Visiting your nearest dental clinic is equally essential. Visit at least once every six months, and not just when you have a dental problem that needs to be addressed.

• A dentist can check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, all of which can impact your oral health without you even realizing it.

• Professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth even below the gum line, which regular brushing and flossing cannot.

• Regular dental checkups can help prevent oral health complications down the road.

By following an oral health care routine at home and seeing a dentist regularly, you can keep your smile healthy and teeth stronger for a lifetime.

When Should You Go for a Dental Checkup?

Most people ask, “how often should you go to the dentist?”

The general rule of thumb says you should visit your dentist every six months. However, the frequency of visits may vary depending on the state of your oral health.

You should visit a dentist more frequently for routine dental checkups if:

• You have gum diseases
• You have crowded teeth
• You have chronic issues like diabetes
• You have a poor immune system
• You follow a poor diet rich in sugars and starches
• You are regularly under stress

People who have taken good care of their teeth and gums and have gone years without any problems, on the other hand, may need to see the dentist less frequently.

Inquire with your dentist about the ideal visitation schedule for you.

How much of your dental health is hereditary?

Your genes influence almost every element of your dental health; the size and shape of your mouth and your bone structure are inherited. According to studies, hereditary factors appear to have a role in roughly 60% of tooth decay. If you have a family history of plaque build-up or cavities, it’s good to schedule regular dental checkups.

Benefits of Regular Dental Health Check-ups

There are several benefits of routine dental checkups. Some of these are listed below:

• Appropriate oral care- Dentists are well-trained to spot dental disorders and detect indicators of severe diseases such as oral cancer to provide suitable treatment.

• Prevent gum disease- Serious gum infections can be identified and treated on time through regular dental checkups. Untreated Periodontitis can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss

• Detect early indications of plaque and tartar- Regular dental cleanings are essential for removing excess plaque and tartar. This prevents the formation of gaps between the teeth and other problems.

What happens During Routine Dental Checkups?

When you visit a dental clinic near you, you will be examined by a dentist and dental hygienist. A routine dental visit consists of two parts: Examination and Cleaning.

The dental hygienist will clean your teeth, perform an examination, and take X-rays if necessary. The dentist will then examine your X-rays and teeth for symptoms of decay and your gums for changes and indicators of oral cancer or other disorders.

If you are visiting for the first time, you will undoubtedly be given a thorough examination. The dentist will examine your mouth, head, and neck. The dentist will also inquire about your medical history, and if necessary, X-rays will be taken.

Even if you’ve been seeing another dentist regularly, your new dentist will initially want to do a thorough examination. This will make it easier to spot changes or difficulties during subsequent visits.

To summarize, a typical dental appointment entails the following procedures:

Step 1: A thorough examination of your gums and overall dental condition.

Step 2: Teeth cleaning to eliminate plaque that has hardened overtime

Step 3: Teeth polishing to remove stains from the surface of your teeth.

Step 4: Examination of neck and head for any abnormal lump (mass)

Step 5:  X-rays, if necessary, to see any damage or disease that isn’t visible to the naked eye

Step 6: Treatment recommendations if any oral health problems are found during your examination

The dentist may not prefer to do all of the procedures on every appointment. Also, keep in mind that every aspect of your oral health is considered when sitting on a dental chair.

Your dentist will also inquire about underlying health conditions or medications.Even if you don’t think it has anything to do with your oral health, don’t hesitate to share it with the dentist.

Difference Between Dental Checkups and Dental Treatments

Dental checkups are like your regular doctor visits. During a dental checkup, the dentist will examine and clean your teeth. They will also look for any signs of cavities, decay, or other issues. Based on their observation, they will suggest a treatment plan if necessary.

Dental treatments are specialist appointments for fillings, deep teeth cleanings, root canals, tooth extractions, and other dental concerns. Dental treatments are frequently the result of a routine dental checkup.

Regular checkups can help detect problems early on, preventing more severe and expensive procedures later. In other words, regular dental examinations protect you from more serious oral health issues and save you a lot of money.

How much is a dental checkup without insurance?

The cost of a dentist visit if you don’t have insurance is determined by the services you need. Cleaning should not be too expensive. However, if your dentist suggests dental x-rays, your fees will rise. Having dental insurance is undoubtedly wise.

Conclusion

Do you love your pearly whites, want to smile like sunshine, and wish that your face never sags with aging?

If the answer to all the above questions is a “Yes,” regular dental checks will prove more than helpful in keeping the odds in your favor.

Whether you are looking for emergency dental care or a regular visit, Kayawell instantly connects you with the best dental experts near you. All you do for a smile that lasts forever is search, connect and visit.