Just because your teeth and gums feel healthy doesn’t mean there aren’t hidden dangers lurking in your mouth. Almost every single patient is going to experience oral health issues, such as dental caries, tooth discoloration and periodontal disease, at some point in their life. It is important to catch these problems early with regular dental check-ups. If you have not had a dental check-up within the last 12 months, then you should schedule your next appointment as soon as possible.
Is Brushing and Flossing Enough?
The importance of brushing and flossing multiple times a day can never be overstated. These simple daily habits will help you defend yourself against some of the most common oral health problems and maintain a vibrant smile.
Unfortunately, brushing and flossing will not always be enough. Many patients find themselves forgetting to brush after a meal or regularly eating foods that stain their teeth. Others will be forced to deal with infections or trauma to the face that can lead to permanent damage if not addressed immediately.
How Often Do I Need a Dental Check-Up?
For the average patient, two dental check-ups every year will be plenty. Depending on the patient’s age and the state of their oral health, these dental check-ups generally last for around an hour. That being said, every patient should speak with our dentist to see if they need more than two dental check-ups per year.
Those who have serious oral health conditions or are classified as a high-risk patient might need a dental check-up every two to three months. Anyone who has recently had any major oral surgeries will also need additional appointments.
What to Expect During Your Dental Check-Up
If you have not had a check-up within the last few years, then our dentist will most likely start your appointment with a closer look at your dental history and general health. You might be asked to provide information on past surgeries, your family’s medical history and any recent illnesses. After the initial medical screening, you will then have your teeth professionally cleaned.
Professional cleaning is one of the most important components of a dental check-up. Brushing and flossing should remove most of the debris that has clung to your teeth and gums, but you might miss at least a few areas over the years.
Our dentist can use specialized tools and techniques to remove anything that has been left behind. This includes lifting any debris that is just above the gum line or in the back of your mouth. Once your mouth has been cleaned and rinsed, the dentist can then look for problems, such as swollen gums, cavities and worn teeth.
A Brighter Smile
There are so many benefits to receiving dental check-ups at Implant and Comprehensive Dentistry, with locations in Champions Gate and Winter Haven. In addition to basic check-ups, our dentist can also help you with professional teeth whitening services to ensure that you enjoy a bright smile until your next appointment. Contact us today to schedule your dental check-up!