What Should You Expect at a Regular Dental Visit?
Scheduling regular dental visits is a critical component to preserving your oral health, and yet people tend to be unaware of what occurs during these regular visits as well as what the differences are between routine cleanings and periodontal maintenance. While both of these services can make a big difference in improving your oral health, the techniques used and the frequency of these cleanings vary greatly depending on individual needs.
Regular dental cleanings are typically performed for individuals who exhibit good general dental health, meaning they have no signs of infection, periodontal disease, or significant bone loss. For those who do not experience symptoms such as gum recession, bleeding, or loose teeth, regular cleanings are generally adequate to maintain oral hygiene.
During a standard cleaning appointment, your dentist will perform a thorough examination to look for any potential problems that may require attention. Following this assessment, a cleaning procedure will take place, wherein the dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar using specialized tools. Following this, they will polish and floss your teeth. Although daily brushing and flossing can significantly diminish tartar buildup, certain stubborn deposits can only be effectively eliminated by a dentist using professional-grade instruments.
If your dentist identifies early signs of periodontal disease, they may recommend a more intensive cleaning method known as scaling and root planing. This procedure uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from both the surfaces above and beneath the gumline.
To prevent the recurrence of periodontal disease following treatment, patients may be advised to undergo periodontal maintenance every three to four months. The specific frequency of these maintenance cleanings largely depends on the rate of plaque and tartar accumulation, the extent of inflammation or bleeding, and your overall oral and physical health.
Regular dental visits are the foundation of having good oral health and are essential for mitigating complications that might otherwise develop in the future. It is equally important that you commit to brushing and flossing at least twice a day and potentially include additional practices to your routine, such as a Waterpik or mouthwash. By combining regular dental visits with consistent at home care, you will significantly improve your oral health and overall well-being and reduce your likelihood of developing periodontal disease. The benefits of diligent dental care also extends beyond oral health. Numerous studies have linked good oral hygiene to a decreased risk of systemic health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and others.
If you have any additional questions about what you should expect at your regular dental visit or if it has been some time since your last visit, contact your periodontist to schedule a consultation. By taking control of your oral health and scheduling an appointment today, you will be taking an important step towards having a smile that you can feel confident in and continue to enjoy improved overall health and well-being with a smile that you can feel good about.