While many people dread going to the dentist, it’s widely understood that routine checkups are important for maintaining optimal oral health. A regularly scheduled dental checkup is a crucial preventive measure that helps keep your smile healthy and bright. During a dental checkup, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar buildup. They will also check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. In addition, your dentist may take X-rays to check for problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye. The frequency of your appointments will depend on your individual needs but it’s typically recommended you see your dentist twice a year. Here’s a look at what you can expect during your next dental checkup.

The initial assessment

Your dentist will begin by asking about your oral hygiene routine and any changes or concerns you may have had since your last visit. They will then proceed to do a visual examination of your mouth, looking for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other problems. Each tooth will be inspected, as well as your gums, tongue, and the inside of your cheeks.

X-rays may be taken to allow your dentist to get a good look at what’s going on below the surface of your teeth and gums, and to review the areas between teeth and under any fillings. If any problems are found, your dentist will discuss options with you and work with you to devise a treatment plan, moving forward.

The initial assessment

You and your dentist may set goals around:

• addressing any dental pain to eliminate it and then a plan for remaining pain-free
• treating gum disease and measures that can be taken to prevent reoccurrence
• being able to enjoy your favourite foods while maintaining good oral health
• having confidence in avoiding an impending tooth fracture

Planning your future dental care

Next, it’s time for good old-fashioned teeth cleaning. This is usually done during your checkup visit unless a deeper clean is needed and a further appointment for that is required.

During a standard clean, your dentist will remove any plaque or tartar buildup from your teeth using water and an ultrasonic cleaner that emits vibrations, however other tools may also be used to get rid of any stubborn plaque or tartar. They will additionally floss your teeth with a professional level of detailing and precision.

To finish off, your teeth will be polished with a high-powered toothbrush and a prophylactic paste to leave them feeling extra clean, shiny and smooth. Fluoride treatment is then optional but highly recommended to protect and strengthen your enamel.

At Eagleby Dental, our ultimate goal for you is to have a smile you’re proud of and enjoy showing off. Routine dental checkups are an important step toward this and for also maintaining good oral health. As you can see from the above, there’s nothing to be afraid of when it comes to going to the dentist! With regular checkups, you can avoid serious dental problems and keep your smile looking its best. So what are you waiting for?

Call us on 07 3382 7500 and schedule an appointment with Dr Louwen Heng today!