Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for good oral health in adults and children to maintain healthy gums, teeth and mouths. When dental hygiene isn’t taken care of, it often leads to oral problems such as:
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Dry mouth
- TMD (temporomandibular joint disorder)
- Plaque
- Gum disease
These are some of the many problems that can lead to more serious dental issues that can cost you a fortune. This is why we highly recommend regular full dental check-ups and cleaning.
Although your oral health relies on your own dental habits of brushing and flossing daily, it is still important to see a dentist regularly. We usually recommend coming in for a dental cleaning and check-up at least every 6 months, but this frequency can vary due to a person’s needs. Your dentist can remove calculus and spot cavities, but they can also spot potential issues related to your overall oral health. A regular dental check-up can be helpful, especially if you have a history of dental problems or frequent cavities. Your dental professional will be able to offer a solution to treat your concerns.
What Happens in a Check-Up?
A regular dental check-up consists of 2 parts. The first is the check-up, where a dental professional will examine your mouth and teeth for cavities, plaque and tartar. The teeth are also checked for broken fillings and decay, with each tooth being checked to make sure nothing is missed. The soft tissue in the mouth is also checked for any ulcers or lesions. The dentist will also check your jaw and associated muscles. A radiograph may be taken if necessary to reveal trauma to jaws and any problems related to wisdom teeth. This can also help identify gum disease.
Once everything is checked, the dental professional will clean your teeth. Plaque is the sticky layer of bacteria found on the surface of your teeth. If the plaque isn’t removed, it can harden and turn into calculus. You cannot remove calculus on your own by brushing and flossing. This build-up of hardening plaque can cause oral disease. Once again, we recommend oral check-ups twice a year to prevent calculus from building up.
Your dental professional will then share tips and advice to look after your dental hygiene and smile. At Stanley St. Dental we will run through and explain the following:
- Brushing
- Flossing
- Fluoride protection
- Product recommendations
- Tooth sensitivity
- Caring for fillings and root canals
- Dry mouth
- Bad breath
- Dental bridges
- Decay
- Dental implants
This is so you get the most out of your dental check-up appointment and can maintain your oral health in the long term. After your check-up, your dentist will recommend when to book the next appointment and how frequently to come in.
How Long Does a Check-Up Take?
A dental check-up, on average, takes around 30 minutes to an hour. However, it depends on the person’s needs and dental concerns. If you have no issues and your teeth are in a healthy condition, the dentist will proceed to clean your teeth. You’ll have a quicker appointment than those with complicated dental problems. We highly recommend setting aside 1–2 hours if you have a complex dental history.
What Is the Importance of Regular Check-Ups?
Regular care of your oral health and prevention of oral diseases can help tackle problems early on. A dental check-up can reveal signs of deficiencies and more severe health issues such as:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- HIV
- Glandular fever
- Autoimmune disease
- Stress
- Heart disease
- Eating disorders
- TMD
This will save you a lot in the long run, health and money-wise. It is ideal to prioritise a check-up and clean at least twice a year.
Signs You’re Overdue for a Check-Up
If you are someone that is experiencing any of these symptoms:
- Swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Constant dry mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Difficulty moving your jaw
- Plaque build-up
It is crucial that you see a dental professional immediately. Even if you don’t experience these symptoms, it is important to visit the dentist regularly.
If you require further treatment, that can be arranged in addition to your check-up. At Stanley St. Dental, we have a range of payment options that allow you to get the best dental care. We recommend speaking to one of our staff about payment plans.
Speak to one of our experienced staff at Stanley St. Dental, and arrange an appointment today.