What to Expect on Your First Routine Dental Checkup: 5 Facts

Dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. According to the American Dental Association, you should visit the dentist for a routine checkup at least once every six months. Aside from practicing good oral health habits, such as brushing and flossing daily, dental checkups also help perform thorough cleaning and assessment of your teeth and gums.

Here are five facts you should know and expect on your first routine dental checkup.

#1 – You are going to get a dental exam.

Especially since it will be your first dental checkup, Dr. Lints will get a good look at your teeth and gums. He will be looking for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health concerns.

During the dental exam, Dr. Lints will also check your bite and make sure your teeth are aligned properly. They will also look at your tongue, gums, and cheeks for any signs of infection or other issues.

#2 – An X-ray is necessary during a dental checkup.

A dental X-ray is an important part of a routine dental checkup. It helps your dentist see what is going on beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Dental X-rays can help identify problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, abscesses, and cysts.

They can also show the roots of your teeth, as well as any bone loss that may have occurred due to periodontal disease. Dental X-rays are a painless and quick way to get a comprehensive look at your oral health.

#3 – Your dentist will perform a thorough cleaning.

A dental cleaning is an important part of a routine dental checkup. During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also polish your teeth and floss them thoroughly.

A dental cleaning is important for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. It is also a good way to remove any built-up staining on your teeth.

#4 – Other dental treatments can be required or recommended.

Depending on what your dentist finds during your dental checkup, you may need to have other dental treatments performed. For example, if you have tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a dental filling or dental crown.

If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning or other dental treatments. Other dental treatments that may be recommended include dental sealants, tooth extractions, or dental implants.

#5 – You may be recommended to an orthodontist.

If your dental checkup shows that you have misaligned teeth or a bad bite, your dentist may recommend that you see an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who can provide dental treatments to improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile.

They are a trained specialist who can use various appliances to align your teeth properly. These appliances include dental braces, dental retainers, and Invisalign in Traverse City. Correctly aligned teeth and gums result to a healthier mouth and a more beautiful smile.

Importance of a Routine Dental Checkup

It’s easy to pass up a routine dental checkup, especially if you’re feeling healthy and have no dental concerns. But dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Dental checkups allow your dentist to catch dental problems early when they are more easily treated.

Dental checkups also give you an opportunity to ask your dentist any questions you may have about oral health or dental treatments. They will be able to educate you on proper dental care habits and help you develop a dental care routine that is best for you.

SCHEDULE YOUR ROUTINE DENTAL CHECKUP WITH DR. LINTS IN MICHIGAN

Dr. Ronald Lints is an orthodontist and dental surgeon. He is one of the best dental care providers in Michigan, with three locations in Traverse City, Suttons Bay, and Elk Rapids. When you schedule a dental checkup with Dr. Lints, you get the best care from a dentist and an orthodontist at the same time.

Dr. Lints is an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists, American Board of Orthodontics, and American Dental Association among others. We offer holistic dental checkup sessions as well as orthodontic treatments such as braces and Invisalign.

To schedule a dental checkup with Dr. Lints, contact any of our three locations and schedule an appointment. If you’re suspecting any dental concerns, don’t hesitate to schedule a dental checkup with us today. We’ll make sure you’re on your way to achieving optimal dental health.