Just like a general physician, your family dentist should be an important part of your healthy living goals. If it has been a while since you last saw the dentist, it is time to go. These appointments are critical to your oral health, even if you think there is nothing wrong with your teeth and gums.
The importance of visiting the family dentist
Some people may think that brushing and flossing at home are enough to maintain healthy teeth. While these habits will go a long way toward achieving these objectives, people need to do more. Going to the dentist’s office is an effective way of avoiding serious conditions such as decay and infections. At a checkup, the family dentist can identify emerging problems before they get worse. The dentist can also treat these conditions and provide relief from pain and discomfort. Going to the dentist regularly establishes good patterns that the patient can follow for life.
What the family dentist does at these appointments
The dentist and staff members will begin by reviewing the patient’s dental health history, including recent and ongoing treatments. The hygienist will take X-rays of the patient’s mouth. While the family dentist reviews these, the hygienist cleans both sides of every tooth and removes plaque and other buildup. The hygienist will also floss in between the teeth and will then polish them.
After this preventive work, the dentist does an examination. The dentist may screen for oral cancer and check the jaw and mouth for abnormalities. Next, the dentist will look for visible signs of damage to the tooth. After looking at the X-rays, the dentist may recommend appropriate treatment and will counsel the patient on good oral habits.
Wellness checkups and their frequency
As soon as a child cuts their first tooth, semiannual wellness visits are critical. These routine examinations should occur every six months from this point on. It is easy to get behind on these visits, so patients should make it a priority to make and keep the appointments.
When to go more often
Some people may need more focused attention than semiannual visits can offer. People who are prone to having cavities should consider visiting the dentist every three months. Patients with gum disease, frequent jaw pain or sores in the mouth should express these concerns with the dentist. The family dentist may put the patient on a treatment plan. This may bring the person into the office every couple of months until the issues are under control. Also, anytime a patient feels extreme pain in their mouth, they should schedule a visit right away.
Getting the most out of your appointments
If you have not been good about visiting the dentist regularly, change your habits now. You do not want to find yourself dealing with cavities, infections or gum problems. By visiting the general dentist at least twice a year, you are doing your part to care for your oral health needs. Schedule an appointment with the dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dazzlemysmile.com or call Dazzling Smile Dental Group at (718) 841-9535 for an appointment in our Bayside office.
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