March 14, 2025
Do you go to the doctor every year for a checkup? If so, you probably know that annual physicals are important for your health and well-being. Through these appointments your general health is assessed and any potential concerns are addressed.
Dental checkups are just as important, and they should take place twice a year. They serve essentially the same purpose, but the focus is primarily on your mouth, not your entire body. However, oral health is a fairly accurate indicator of your general health.
If you’re not currently going to the dentist on a regular schedule, now is the time to get started. In case it's been a while since your last dental checkup, here’s what you can expect during your visit.
Comprehensive Exam
A routine visit to your dentist will include a comprehensive oral examination. Your dentist will assess your oral health including your teeth, jaw, and the soft tissues of your mouth to identify any potential concerns. They are looking for cavities, signs of gum disease, cracks in your teeth, and any other threat to the health of your mouth so that the necessary treatment can be provided. An oral cancer screening is also a part of the comprehensive exam. This involves an evaluation of your mouth, jaw, and neck to detect any abnormalities that may need to be addressed.Teeth Cleaning
A professional dental cleaning will typically include 3 steps:- Cleaning. A dental hygienist will clean your teeth using a variety of dental tools. Plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) are removed from your teeth.
- Polishing. Your teeth will be polished using an electric rotating tool that smooths the enamel.
- Flossing. During most cleanings your teeth will be professionally flossed.
Dental X-Rays
Once a year you will need to have dental X-rays. These images allow your dentist to detect cavities or abnormalities that may be invisible to the naked eye. As a precaution, a protective apron is placed over your body during dental X-rays to prevent radiation exposure to your vital organs.Additional Treatments
If necessary or requested, these additional treatments may be included in a routine dental checkup:- Fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to strengthen the enamel to resist decay and reduce sensitivity.
- Dental sealants. Teeth that are at risk for cavities may be sealed for prevention.
- Custom mouthguards. If you grind your teeth or play sports, a custom mouthguard can be created to protect your teeth from damage.
Benefits of Regular Dental Checkups
- Prevention. The biggest advantage to regular dental checkups is that they are preventive, meaning they prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health concerns, allowing you to avoid restorative treatments.
- Early detection. Dental checkups and X-rays often identify potential concerns in the earliest stages, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes for patients.
- Affordable. Routine dental checkups are typically covered in full by most dental insurance plans. Even without insurance the cost is very affordable.
- Improved health. Not only does your oral health improve with regular dental checkups, your overall health is improved. Oral health is linked to a variety of severe health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and cancer.
