What Can I Expect from a Regular Dental Checkup?

Dental checkups are an essential part of your overall health. It is recommended to have two dental checkups each year as part of your oral health regimen. But what really happens once you arrive and sit in the dentist’s chair? If you're worried, anxious, or just plain curious about how your dental exam will go, Downey Dental Arts has put together this guide to help calm your fears and quench your need to know.

Why Do I Need a Dental Checkup?

Everyone should have regular dental checkups. Often this means visiting your dentist about every six months. These checkups allow your dentist to identify any oral health problems you may have and begin treatment before problems become worse. Untreated dental issues can become serious and may be more painful and difficult to treat later.

Letting your dentist examine your teeth can also help prevent problems in the future. Your dentist will give you advice about how to best take care of your teeth and the specific oral health issues you may face. Listening to and following your dentist’s oral hygiene tips can help prevent future dental issues from arising.

Who Performs Dental Checkups?

Your checkup will primarily be performed by two people- a dental hygienist and your dentist. Your dental hygienist or a certified dental assistant (CDA) is probably the person you'll spend the most time with during your checkup. Your dentist will also attend your checkup to examine your teeth, advise you about your dental habits, and recommend any dental work that you may need.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

There are a lot of things your dental hygienist and dentist will do during your dental checkup. The process is usually quite simple and painless but is needed to make sure your teeth and mouth are at their best.

Dental Cleaning

Your dental checkup will typically begin with a dental cleaning. A dental hygienist will use various tools to scrape away the plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, especially around your gum line.

Polish Teeth

The dental hygienist will then use a motorized tool and polishing paste to polish your teeth and remove all residue. This will give your teeth a smooth clean surface once it's finished.

Report to Dentist

After your cleaning the dental hygienist will report any findings to the dentist so they can prepare for the examination of your teeth. If necessary, the dentist may order x-rays to be taken.

Take X-Rays

X-rays are a helpful tool in diagnosing dental issues. If your dentist or dental hygienist notices an issue with your teeth, they may ask to take x-rays so they can examine the structure inside and between teeth where it is too difficult to see. The x-ray process is safe, simple, and painless.

Tooth and Mouth Exam

Once your dentist arrives, they will perform a checkup of your teeth and mouth. They will examine your teeth using a small metal probe and a mirror. This helps to see in between teeth and all the way to the back of your mouth. Your dentist will look for any damage or irregularities in your tooth enamel, the hard outer covering of your teeth, and any abnormalities with your gums. Your dentist may also measure your periodontal pockets, the space between the top of your gum line and where your gums attach to your tooth, to look for signs of gum disease.

During this exam your dentist will also look for any oral health issues like jaw alignment, teeth grinding and even oral cancer. Your jaw bones, grooves of your teeth and your bite will all be examined as well. Your dentist will work hard to identify any problems you might have so they can be addressed as soon as possible.

Findings and Advice

After the examination your dentist will be ready to share the results with you. They will let you know what issues they may have found and the best possible treatments options. Your dentist will discuss any changes you may need to make to your oral health routine and suggest the best ways for you to take care of your teeth. Your dentist is an expert in mouths and teeth. It is important to listen to their advice and put it into action the best you can to assure your best oral health.

What Will Happen If the Dentist Finds Something Wrong?

If your dentist finds a dental health issue in your mouth, they will let you know. Your dentist will tell you what they have found and suggested treatment methods. They may suggest changes in your oral hygiene habits, additional procedures, or refer you to a specialist.

How Much Does a Dental Checkup Cost?

The cost of a regular dental checkup varies but is often covered by a dental health insurance plan. Other procedures may have additional costs under your health plan or may require a copay at the time of your visit. If your dentist recommends additional procedures, they will inform you of the estimated cost ahead of time. The best way for you to keep dental costs down is to talk with your dental health plan provider in advance to learn what your plan covers.

Getting your regular dental checkup is easy at Downey Dental Arts. Our team is here to make your experience as simple and comfortable as possible. We want you to feel good about your dental health, so we strive to make your experience something you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Is it time for your regular dental health checkup? Ready to set up your first dental appointment? No matter your situation you can give Downey Dental Arts a call at (562) 445-3363 to set up an appointment with a dentist who is ready to help you today!