As your dentist in Lacey, we know how important regular preventive dental care is for healthy teeth and gums. People of all ages benefit from consistent hygiene visits to the dentist. But patients always want to know one thing — are regular six month visits to the dentist really all that necessary? While some people can get by with a visit to the dentist every year, most patients absolutely need a checkup and cleaning twice a year. Let’s take a closer look at why.
Healthy Teeth and Gums: The Secret Is in Prevention
It’s easier to keep a problem from developing in the first place than to fix an existing issue. That couldn’t be more true with your dental health. Tooth decay and gum disease don’t get better on their own — and when they’re ignored, these issues may require expensive, time consuming, and potentially uncomfortable treatment.
Visiting the dentist regularly, even when you don’t think you have a problem, is crucial for removing the plaque and bacteria that cause problems. These frequent visits also help us catch issues early, for a simpler, more conservative treatment. In fact, gum disease and tooth decay caught in their very earliest stages can be reversed with improved at-home hygiene.
People who are at an increased risk for tooth decay and gum disease may benefit from more frequent visits to the dentist. Risk factors include poor dental hygiene at home, tobacco use, poor nutrition, and the use of medications causing dry mouth.
What to Expect From Your Checkup and Cleaning
When you come in for a checkup and cleaning at Peterson & Cammack, we’ll begin your appointment with a thorough discussion of your oral health. Have you noticed anything unusual lately? Experiencing any new sensitivity or discomfort? You’re the expert when it comes to your teeth and gums — be sure to tell us anything we need to know about your oral health.
You can expect the hygiene portion of the visit to last for half an hour to 45 minutes. If you’ve done a good job taking care of your teeth since your last cleaning, your dental hygienist’s job will be easy. He or she will remove plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth, and check the depth of any pockets that exist between your teeth and gums for evidence of infection. Using a combination of special hand tools, pastes, and polishes, your hygienist smooths the surface of your teeth for that clean feel we all love after a trip to the dentist.
After the cleaning is complete, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and any x-rays we’ve taken for potential issues. Cavities, gum disease, worn dental work, and any suspicious lumps and bumps are all considered during the examination. If issues are present, we will put together a plan for prompt restorative care or further attention as needed.
Stay On Top of Routine Dental Care
Don’t skip out on your regular preventive dental care at Peterson & Cammack Dentistry. Your dentist will let you know how often you should schedule a checkup and cleaning — stick to the recommendation to enjoy healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime to come! Contact our office to schedule an appointment today.