What happens during a dental checkup?
We all know someone who is afraid of the dentist or perhaps, you are afraid of the dentist yourself. This fear can come from a bad experience from a previous visit, or because of the uncertainty that comes with each appointment. Fear not however, our dentists are here to make sure you are comfortable and well aware of what goes on during each appointment!
If you have been holding back on making an appointment with the dentist and want to know what goes on during a checkup and cleaning, this article is for you! Finding a dentist that you are comfortable with and understands you is important. Having a dentist that you trust immediately takes the weight off your shoulders so you can get your teeth checked out with a peace of mind.
During your first appointment, you will be warmly welcomed into the office and you will be asked to fill out a health history form. After which, the CDA (Certified Dental Assistant) will bring you to the back to get some Xrays taken.
Your dentist will then perform an oral examination. Fear not! This does not hurt. The dentist will simply take a look at your teeth and gums, and perhaps probe around to ensure he/she does not miss anything. After the examination, your dentist will go over the findings from the Xrays and the examination and let you know how things are going with your oral hygiene and health. If any treatment is required, your dentist will go through all your options with you to ensure you understand everything. This is a good time to ask any questions you might have!
Once you and your dentist are on the same page with regards to any treatment needed, he/she will proceed to clean your teeth. Sometimes, a dental hygienist will take over and proceed with the cleaning. During the cleaning, some patients might feel sensitivity. Let your dentist/hygienist know if you are feeling any sensitivity or discomfort so that he/she can administer some local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. During the cleaning, your dentist/hygienist will scale your teeth to remove all plaque and tartar build up. Once that is done, your teeth will be polished and a fluoride varni
sh will be applied.
Thats it! Dental checkups and cleanings are quick and pain-free, and should not be avoided. It is important to keep up with them once every six months to maintain your oral hygiene and to prevent any dental decay.
