Even if you say that you take care of your teeth very well at home, you can’t evade the fact that you still should visit your dentist at least twice a year.
You may not rank a trip to the dentist among your favourite things to do, but if you want the best dental care for your teeth and gums, regular visits to the dentist are essential.
What Happens At A Typical Visit To The Dentist
Going to the dentist every six months greatly aids in prevention against cavities, plaque build-up, and other teeth- and mouth-related problems.
The goal of dentists is to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral conditions that put the health of your teeth and mouth in jeopardy.
A consultation with a dentist will usually consist of three parts: a medical and dental history (this is where the dentist asks questions about tooth care and reviews past dental records), an oral examination, and a professional cleaning (oral prophylaxis).
The dentist will thoroughly examine the teeth and other tissues surrounding the mouth. The joints of the jaws may also be included as part of the examination of the overall health of an individual’s mouth.
Dentists usually use a probe and mirror to check the crown (the visible part) of each tooth for evidence of looseness, decay, or plaque. The dentist may also check the quality of your bite and the way your teeth fit together.
After checking the teeth, the dentist will usually proceed to examine the general condition of the gums. Healthy gums are pink and firm – not swollen, soft or inflamed.
If the dentist can find deep depressions (or pockets), he or she might suspect that an individual has gum disease.
When the dentist is finished examining the visible parts of the mouth, teeth, and gums, they will then take X-rays that could possibly reveal abscesses, tooth decay, or impacted wisdom teeth.
Abscesses should be visible right away because they involve a collection of pus surrounded by tissues that are swollen. If an abscess isn’t treated right away, it could lead to other serious health complications.
Why Professional Cleaning Is Better Than Normal Tooth Brushing
Professional cleaning aims to remove hard deposits with the use of a scraping instrument called a scaler.
Aside from a scaler, an ultrasonic machine may also be used by the dentist; it uses high-frequency sound waves to facilitate the loosening of plaque deposits.
After cleaning, most dental hygienists will polish the teeth. Polishing of the teeth smoothens and further cleans the surfaces, removing annoying stains and making the teeth more resistant to plaque.
There is also an option to apply a fluoride sealant or compound to help prevent or slow down decay.
Going To The Dentist Isn’t So Bad After All
Now that you are aware of what happens during a regular dental visit, you probably think that a trip to the dentist won’t be so bad, right?
If you want to promote excellent personal dental care, you should take the initiative to see your dentist. Dentists are equipped with the knowledge, tools, machines, and instruments that will make your teeth and mouth cleaner, fresher and healthier.
You can’t achieve optimal dental health alone – you need the expertise of your dentist on a regular, ongoing basis to have the smile you deserve. Make an appointment today! Call us at (416) 232-2033 or schedule a consultation here.