Your upcoming dental appointment is just days away, and it’s been a while since you’ve stepped foot inside your dentist’s office. When life gets busy, even some of the most important to-do items can get pushed to the back burner, and oftentimes, one of those items is getting a dental checkup. Now that you’re getting ready to have a routine cleaning, a dentist in Dublin discusses what you can expect.
Why Are Twice a Year Cleanings So Important?
When faced with any situation, you have the choice to either be proactive or reactive. When it comes to your oral health, it is always better to take preventative steps than wait for a problem to occur and react to it. Regular dental cleanings, meaning twice a year, allow your dentist to thoroughly examine your mouth to make sure there are no causes for concerns. Of course, maintaining good oral habits at home can help your routine checkups go smoothly as well. Some of the things your dentist may look for during a cleaning include:
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
- Cavities
- Effects of teeth grinding (uneven teeth)
- TMJ
What Should I Expect During My Routine Checkup?
Once you arrive at the dentist office, you can expect the following to occur:
- X-rays. If it’s been a while since your last visit, your dentist will want to take an x-ray of your smile, so they have a comprehensive picture of your oral health. Many dentists use digital x-rays to reduce the amount of radiation exposure. The image allows your dentist in Dublin to see if there are any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, TMJ, or bruxism (teeth grinding).
- Teeth cleaning. After examining the x-rays, the dental team will begin cleaning your teeth and gums, removing plaque and tartar buildup from around the gum line using specialized tools. If bacteria is allowed to grow, it can cause gum disease, cavities, bad breath, and additional health problems. You can also expect the dental hygienist to polish and floss your teeth, making your smile look better than ever.
What Can I Do Between Checkups to Maintain Good Oral Health?
Since your dentist will want to see you every six months, you can expect to have homework while you’re away. To ensure your mouth stays in tip-top shape, you’ll need to do the following:
- Brush and floss daily. This means brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once a day. Talk to your dentist about proper flossing techniques, so you don’t damage your gums.
- Clean your tongue. Using a toothbrush or tongue scraper, remove bacteria living on the surface of your tongue. You can perform this cleaning during your daily brushing and flossing routine.
- Watch your diet. Avoiding sugary and starchy foods can prevent too much bacteria from building in your mouth. Instead, choose fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
We know life happens, and it can sometimes cause us to push aside the important things like seeing a dentist. However, putting off a dental visit can create problems for your oral health. Get back into the routine and make sure your mouth stays clean and healthy for decades!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck earned a Bachelor of Arts in zoology from Miami University before going on to pursue a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Offering the best dentistry, Dr. Buck and his team of professionals have the knowledge and expertise to give you the smile you want. To learn more, contact us via the website or by calling (614) 792-1800.