What Happens During My Checkup?

We agree with the American Dental Association that maintaining healthy smiles means seeing the dentist for routine checkups. Whether you’re an adult or a child, you need to have your smile examined. Otherwise, minor problems could soon escalate and threaten your oral health. What happens during your checkup? What can you expect from this preventive treatment?

Frequently Asked Questions About Checkups

Question: How often should I have an exam?

Answer: You should have your teeth examined once every six months. We recommend routine exams for children, adults, and seniors. The doctor can identify the presence of potential problems, treating them before they can progress and threaten the health of your smile.

Question: Does the doctor use technology to examine my smile?

Answer: yes. We may use digital x-rays to gather detailed images of your smile and pinpoint problems that would otherwise be invisible to the naked eye. We can also take digital photographs or create detailed wax models.

Question: Will I also receive a cleaning?

Answer: In the same visit, you may also receive a dental cleaning. The cleaning involves the removal of plaque buildup from your teeth. Removing plaque can prevent the weakening of enamel and the inflammation of the gums, preventing tooth decay and gum disease in some cases. As with a checkup, we recommend a dental cleaning once every six months, which is why we typically offer them in the same visit.

Question: What issues will the doctor look for?

Answer: The doctor will look for warning signs of tooth decay, gingivitis, or dental infection. We can then recommend treatment to prevent the problems from worsening. We will also look for jaw joint disorders, such as TMJ disorder or bruxism, as well as oral cancer and gum disease.

Share this Article