Dental Check-Ups
We all know how important it is to take care of our health, but sometimes we can fall behind on preventive care – especially for our teeth.
Maybe you’ve just switched to a new dental plan and haven’t chosen a new clinic yet. Maybe you’re worried about the cost, or even a little scared of the dentist’s chair. Perhaps you’ve just been busy.
Whatever the reason, it’s important to get into the habit of regular visits to the dentist. Why? Because preventive dental care is important to your overall health, your smile and more.
Why do I need a dental check-up?
A check-up allows your dentist to see if you have any dental problems and helps you keep your mouth healthy.
Leaving problems untreated could make them more difficult to treat in the future, so it’s best to deal with problems early or, if possible, prevent them altogether.
What happens during a dental check-up?
At each check-up, your dentist should:
- examine your teeth, gums and mouth
- ask about your general health and any problems you’ve had with your teeth, mouth or gums since your last visit
- ask about, and give you advice on, your diet, smoking and alcohol use, and teeth-cleaning habits
- discuss a date for your next visit
How often do I need a dental check-up?
Getting a dental check-up at least once a year can help maintain the overall health of your teeth and mouth, and help identify any problems early. A build-up of tartar can cause long-term issues. To avoid any dental problems that require expensive procedures, consider getting at least one dental check-up and dental exam each year.
If you have a dental plan, make sure you know what’s covered for dental care. Dental costs vary depending on what you need done and the type of dental insurance you have. You can start taking control of costs by learning ahead of time what kind of dental procedures and treatments your plan covers.
Is There Anything else I need to know about dental Check-Ups ?
You can help keep your teeth for your lifetime by getting regular dental exams and taking good care of your teeth and gums. For a healthy mouth and strong teeth:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and toothpaste with fluoride.
- Clean between your teeth regularly using dental floss, a special brush, or a plastic pick. Your dentist can suggest the best way to do this.
- Replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
- Eat a healthy diet and limit sweets and sugary drinks. If you do have sweets, brush your teeth soon afterwards.
- Drink fluoridated water.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking increases your risk for gum disease.
