Dental Check-Ups

How often should I get a checkup?

This is the most common question that we get, and people want to know how often they should have their dental checkup. There are different discussions, like whether to go once a year or take x-rays only once a year. You should see your dentist every six months if you don't have gum disease. If you have gum disease, you would see your hygienist every three months, but the checkup still goes every six months. It's important to visit your dentist regularly to know what's going on in your mouth. While you might feel like everything is fine, there are certain things you can't detect yourself. Get a professional to examine you.

Do I really need the fluoride treatment?

A lot of people ask if they really need fluoride treatment because they're not children anymore. It's not just for children; everyone benefits from fluoride treatment. Fluoride makes your teeth insoluble to decay, meaning decay cannot stick or penetrate the tooth anymore.

How often should I get fluoride treatment?

The best time to get fluoride treatment is during your cleaning. Make it a habit to get it every time you see your hygienist. At the end of the cleaning, let them do the fluoride treatment for you.

How can I prevent getting tooth decay?

You should floss after each meal and brush your teeth at least twice a day. The first time should be right before bed, after you're done eating for the day, and then in the morning after breakfast. This way, you avoid food remnants staying around your teeth all day. If possible, brush after each meal, but if not, twice a day is sufficient.

Are there any dietary restrictions to prevent cavities?

Pretty much every food can cause cavities if misused. Maintain a well-balanced diet and try to brush your teeth right after eating, if possible.

Is there any specific product that will prevent cavities?

Fluoride will help a lot, along with maintaining a healthy diet.

Do I really need to take x-rays?

The truth is, doctors do not have x-ray vision. Sometimes cavities, especially small ones between the teeth, cannot be seen without x-rays. While there are technologies like infrared video scanners, x-rays are often necessary to see cavities and other issues in the bone around your teeth.

How often should you take x-rays?

The recommendation is every six months. New cavities can develop and penetrate through the enamel within this time frame, potentially reaching the nerve. Regular x-rays help detect these issues early.

How safe is it to get dental x-rays?

Getting a full mouth of dental x-rays is roughly equivalent to sitting under the sun for 8 to 10 minutes. It's a comparable amount of radiation to what you would get just by being outside.

How can I prevent gum disease?

Brush and floss every day, ideally twice a day. A healthy diet is also important. Avoid excessive candy consumption, but if you do indulge, brush right after. Regular visits to your hygienist are crucial, especially if you have gum disease, in which case you should go every three months. For others, every six months is sufficient.

Why are dental exams and cleanings essential?

Dental exams and cleanings are essential as part of your overall maintenance. The mouth is a port into your entire body, so if the port is occupied by bacteria, you're swallowing them, which can be harmful. Cosmetically, regular checkups help prevent bad breath, making social interactions more pleasant. Regular dental checkups also help you monitor your oral health status.

What is included in a dental exam?

A dental examination includes x-rays and an oral cancer screening. We also perform a wellness scan, providing a three-dimensional video scan of your mouth. This allows you to see areas that are difficult to view with mirrors, helping to identify any abnormalities or areas of concern.

What is the dentist looking for during a dental exam?

During a dental exam, the dentist looks for normal anatomy and any abnormalities or deviations from the norm. Identifying these changes helps in diagnosing and addressing potential issues to restore normalcy.

What type of recommendation might come from a dental exam?

Recommendations from a dental exam may include regular visits to the dentist, brushing and flossing regularly, and focusing on missed spots. The dentist may also check for oral cancer and refer you to a specialist if needed. If cavities or missing teeth are detected, appropriate treatments will be recommended.