Has it been a while since you had a general dentist checkup? You know how critical it is to maintain good health. Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is part of your overall wellness. It may be easy to lose track of time, but you cannot forget to keep up on your dental appointments.
A casual or neglectful approach to oral care can lead to serious problems. Lack of brushing and flossing can cause tooth decay or infections. Plaque and tartar can build up on teeth, causing gum disease. In the most serious cases, gums can recede, and the patient may suffer bone loss in the jaw. An abscess may develop on a tooth as well. Without proper intervention, the person could lose teeth.
A general dentist appointment is preventive and allows the dentist to diagnose any developing conditions in the patient’s mouth. The hygienist will first take X-rays of all the patient’s teeth. Next, the hygienist will clean each side of every tooth, scraping up plaque and other buildup. Flossing will follow this step; sometimes, the hygienist may use an ultrasonic tool to do this. The hygienist or dental assistant will polish the person’s teeth. Lastly, the dentist will do an examination and may provide suggestions on how to improve brushing and flossing.
As soon as a young child’s teeth start emerging, patients should come to the dentist every six months. It is important not to get behind in these visits and to establish consistent habits of getting these checkups. Patients with gum or tooth issues such as gingivitis, periodontitis or severe tooth decay should come in even more often. The dentist will establish a treatment plan in these cases.
Some people may think diligent daily brushing, flossing or rinsing with mouthwash is enough and that dental checkups are unnecessary. While these at-home habits are good, dental appointments are crucial components of oral health care. At a dental checkup, the dentist can spot concerning issues before they get worse. The dentist also has tools and equipment to reach some of the difficult areas of the mouth more effectively. Dental visits are complementary to the consistent habits people can do on their own.
People do not have to wait six months to make a general dentist appointment. If the patient has a toothache, it is important to come in as soon as possible. The dentist can also address problems such as broken or chipped teeth, or bleeding gums at any time between the semiannual wellness exams.
It is easy to let time get away from you and miss out on dental appointments. However, the longer you wait to see the dentist, the more likely you will develop harmful conditions in your mouth and teeth. The dentist can repair these issues and improve the way your teeth look and feel. Schedule your next appointment today.
Are you considering visiting a general dentist in the Livermore area? Get more information at https://www.drtimhubbs.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Livermore, CA.
One of the most common dental procedures that general dentists offer is a dental bridge. This is a method of teeth replacement that replaces one missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. A dental bridge most notably addresses a cosmetic concern, but it may offer functional and oral health benefits as well. It is helpful…
Routine dental cleaning from a general dentist is a necessity, not a luxury. Plaque and tartar will wreak havoc on the teeth and gums if allowed to remain in the mouth for too long. Therefore, it is advisable to visit the dentist for a professional dental cleaning twice a year, preferably.Plaque and tartar in the…
Regularly getting general dentistry services can go a long way when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy. Preventive dentistry treatments are the most common treatments performed by dentists, and they help to protect teeth from the things that are most likely to damage them.Teeth are naturally protected by enamel, which is the hardest part…
Patients often get dental exams at dental practice visits. Knowing what to expect from one can help the visit go smoother. That way, the patient can make a more informed decision. It also reduces potential anxiety about the visit. Keep reading to learn more about getting an exam.Each exam differs because the dentist might have…
Dental lumineers are a popular choice for people who want to enhance their smile and cover up any unsightly dental issues, such as chipped teeth or discoloration. Veneers are typically considered the go-to option for such issues; however, they provide a significant amount of coverage that not every patient requires. For less severe dental problems…
Are you searching for a "dentist near me"? Read on to learn more about choosing a dental health professional. If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist near me," you will probably need to explore a couple of options. Finding a good dentist requires you to do your…