What is a Preventative Dentist Visit?
Regular visits to your dentist are important. Known as preventative dentistry, these checkups help to maintain the health of your smile, catch any issues before they become more serious, and promotes healthy oral care.
At Brentwood Family Dentistry, we understand how important preventative dentistry is to your health. Below, we talk about the risks you take when you skip your semi-annual visit to the dentist as well as what you can expect when you visit us.
Skipping Visits Puts You at Risk
The American Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist every 6 months. These semi-annual visits are essential to maintaining your oral health.
Plaque and tartar build-up can lead to cavities. Whether you brush your teeth regularly or not, build up is possible based on genetics, diet, or other factors. Visiting your dentist is the best way to help decrease the likelihood of developing cavities, gingivitis, enamel loss, periodontitis and other illnesses associated with tartar and bacteria that may inhabit the mouth.
You also may not realize that your oral health can affect your overall health. In fact, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory disease, and cancer have all been linked to poor oral health. Taking care of your mouth helps you take care of your overall health too.
What to Expect at a Preventative Dentistry Visit
During your visit with a general dentist, you can expect two things. The checkup is first; it is performed by your dentist and helps them to evaluate the overall health of your mouth. (If any cavities or other issues arise, you may also be asked to allow your dentist to take an oral x-ray to help them evaluate the level of damage or decay.) Your oral checkup includes an examination of your teeth, gums, tongue, and throat. Your face, neck, and head will also be checked for any swelling that may indicate a hidden oral infection.
The checkup is followed by a dental cleaning. While brushing and flossing at home help to keep plaque from building up on your teeth, you alone cannot remove tartar. A general dentist will use special tools to help remove any tartar build up. Your dentist will also polish and floss your teeth during this portion of your visit.
Visit Your Local General Dentist Today
At Brentwood Family Dentistry, we understand how scary a visit to your local general dentist can be. Rest assured, with Dr. James W. Rhea D.D.S. and Michael J. Doherty D.D.S, we take your fears and expectations seriously. Whether you need a filling, root canal, nightguards or other dental care, we walk you through every step of the way to ensure you are as comfortable as possible and prepared.
If you would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!
