When is the last time you saw your dentist for a checkup? If it has been more than six months, you are overdue for an appointment. Which probably leads to you asking yourself, do I really need to go? The short answer: yes.
At East Limestone Family Dental, we follow and agree with the American Dental Association’s recommendations. According to the ADA, people should see their dentist at least every six months. But why is it necessary to see your dentist twice a year? Especially if you take good care of your teeth at home? Keep reading to find out more about it, then call us at 256-229-3416 to request your next appointent in Harvest, AL.
Why Do I Need to Go to the Dentist?
Regular dental visits are essential for the proper maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. Even if you brush twice a day and floss once daily as recommended, you should still see your dentist for regular checkups.
When you come to our office for a routine checkup, we do more than just professionally clean your teeth. We check for problems that may not be easy to see or feel. Not all dental problems are visible or cause pain. If we can catch a problem early on, we can effectively treat them before they become a bigger issue.
The things we look for include early signs of gum disease, cavities, and signs of oral cancer.
What to Expect During A Dental Checkup
It is completely normal to feel anxious about visiting the dentist. But knowing what to expect can help relieve some of the anxiety you feel.
When you come to see one of our East Limestone Family Dental team members for a checkup, we will take time to evaluate the health of your gums and teeth. We will also likely examine your head and neck to look for signs of any health issues. While examining your mouth, we will look for signs of oral cancer, diabetes, or vitamin deficiencies.
Once we thoroughly examine your mouth, head, and neck, we will clean your teeth. During your cleaning, you will notice that we pay special attention to plaque and tartar. Even with proper brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can linger on the teeth. We have special tools that can gently yet effectively remove the buildup.
While cleaning your teeth, we will also talk to you about your oral hygiene routine, to get an idea of how effectively you are cleaning your mouth at home. Depending on the condition of your teeth, additional treatments or cleanings may be required.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
By practicing good habits at home and visiting your dentist for regular checkups, you are far less likely to develop oral health problems. At East Limestone Family Dental, we encourage our patients to stay proactive in maintaining good oral hygiene. If there is any way we can help, please do not hesitate to let us know.
Call our Harvest, AL office today at 256-229-3416 to schedule your next dental cleaning. If it has been more than six months, don’t worry. We will never shame you for your habits. We are just happy to see you!
