The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings, but many people neglect to schedule these appointments due to anxiety, being busy at work, or not understanding how important they are. Regardless of how long it has been since your last checkup, your dentist will do everything possible to help you enjoy a pleasant and effective treatment process. Here’s a quick overview of what will probably happen during your next dentist’s visit.
A Dental Assistant Will Measure Your Blood Pressure
While it might seem strange that your dentist would be interested in your blood pressure, measuring this important biometric can help your oral health professional establish a baseline in case you need an intensive treatment that requires your heart rate to be monitored. Taking your blood pressure at the beginning of your appointment may also allow your dentist to refer you to an appropriate specialist if the reading is too low or too high. Since people usually see their dentists more than their general practitioners, these readings can help detect and treat cardiovascular problems in their early stages.
Your Dentist Will Thoroughly Examine Your Teeth
When you are in the treatment chair, your dentist will carefully inspect your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues to evaluate their health and look for problems. This will include applying mild pressure to the teeth to make sure they aren’t loose in their sockets. If your dentist detects any problems like gum disease or cavities, they will be happy to perform or schedule you for an appropriate restorative treatment such as a filling, a root canal, or a periodontal treatment.
Your Dentist Will Carefully Clean Your Teeth
Your daily oral hygiene regimen is your first line of defense against oral infections, enamel stains, and bad breath, but there are tight spaces in your mouth where toothbrushes and dental floss cannot reach. During your checkup, your dentist will carefully clean and polish your teeth with professional-grade tools to eliminate accumulations of plaque and food residue that can shelter and feed populations of harmful oral bacteria. When you leave your appointment, you should find that your mouth feels exceptionally clean and fresh.
Regular dental appointments are a crucial part of keeping your teeth strong and your smile beautiful. Scheduling your next appointment can be the best thing for your oral and overall health even if you haven’t seen your dentist in a while.
About the Practice
Dr. Steven Kendrick earned his dental degree at the Oklahoma University College of Dentistry and has completed extensive postgraduate coursework from the Misch International Implant Institute. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Oklahoma Dental Association. His office in Midwest City offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next checkup, contact the office online or dial (405) 732-0431.