Dentists recommend that you come in for a check-up every six months, but what exactly are they checking? What can you expect from a routine dental check-up? This blog will cover some of the most common things your dentist and hygienist will do during your appointment.

Teeth Cleaning

After getting you settled in the chair, the hygienist will clean your teeth. They’ll start by scraping off any plaque or tartar build-up along the gum line. Because tartar is calcified plaque that is attached to the enamel of the tooth, only a dental professional can remove it properly. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.

Many people experience pain or tenderness during the scraping process. This is usually because of poor oral hygiene. If you have not been properly taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing regularly, your gums may be swollen and prone to bleeding. To ensure a pain-free cleaning, make sure you follow dental hygiene guidelines.

Next, the hygienist will floss your teeth, removing food or plaque stuck between your teeth. 

The final step to cleaning your teeth is using a spinning tool and special paste to polish your teeth. This makes sure there is no residue on the surface of the teeth and makes them smoother so that plaque cannot collect as easily. They may also utilize an ultrasonic scaler, which uses a jet of water to remove plaque or wash away excess polish.

As the hygienist cleans your teeth, they will make note of any issues they may see to discuss with the dentist later on. 

X-Rays

Your dental hygienist may take X-rays of your mouth so the dentist can see if there are any problems with your teeth, gums, or jaws that may not be visible to the naked eye. X-rays are useful in diagnosing a number of different issues, including cavities, infections, abscessed teeth, cysts, and tumors.

If they determine you need x-rays, they will have you bite down on a special piece of plastic while they use the X-ray machine to create an image of your teeth and bones. They may either take intraoral X-rays, where the sensor is inside your mouth, or extraoral X-rays, where the sensor is outside your mouth and takes pictures through your skin.

Although X-rays emit radiation, they are safe. The amount of radiation in a set of dental X-rays is comparable to the amount of radiation you get from cell phones, televisions, and computers. Although X-rays are safe to get every once in a while, the hygienist may cover your chest with a lead apron as a precaution to block any excess radiation from entering your body.

Dental Exam

After the hygienist is done cleaning your teeth, the dentist will review your X-rays and perform a dental exam. In this exam, they are looking for bone loss, fractures, and cavities. They may use small mirrors or magnification devices to help them see better.

They check for problems with gums, such as swelling, redness, bleeding, or sores. They will also check and measure your periodontal pockets, which are the spaces between the top of the gum line and the soft tissue that secures the tooth in place. Periodontal pockets deeper than three millimeters could be a sign of gum disease or periodontitis.

Your dentist may even be able to note signs of diabetes by checking your gums. People with diabetes have a harder time fighting off bacteria, so some of the symptoms are bad breath and gum infection. 

The dentist will also check your bite by examining your jaw alignment and looking for cracks in your teeth caused by grinding or clenching your teeth. They’ll also check for abnormalities that could be caused by oral cancer by feeling gently around your neck and jaw.

Discuss Oral Health

After your exam, the dentist will consider your medical history, x-rays, and exam, discuss any issues, and give you advice about how to proceed. Sometimes, you may need a follow-up appointment for a procedure such as a cavity filling or root canal. Otherwise, they’ll give you some oral health suggestions for you to follow until your next check-up.

Get a Dental Check-Up at Sunset Dental Care

In addition to basic cleanings and exams, Sunset Dental Care offers many different services, including cosmetic dentistry, extractions, crowns, implants, and root canals. Our experienced team values honesty and ensures each patient understands their treatment plan and procedures. Schedule a dental check-up today to make sure your smile shines bright!