General dentistry visits are essential when looking to maintain good oral health. While at-home oral hygiene is an effective way to keep the gums and teeth in good shape, it alone is not enough. Seeing a general dentist at least twice a year for a check-up combined with at-home oral hygiene is the best way to maintain good oral health. Individuals that have avoided routine
general dentistry appointments for awhile may hesitate towards maintaining them again. However, they are essential and should not be feared. Check-up appointments are relatively easy, painless, and quite helpful in supporting good oral health.
What to expect during a general dentistry visit
Below is a quick overview of
general dentistry visits so that patients can set realistic expectations. Keep reading to learn more.
Dental cleaning
One of the main parts of a general dentistry visit is a dental cleaning. Dental cleanings are recommended twice a year or every six months. During a dental cleaning, the general dentist or hygienist will use instruments to clean the teeth effectively. An electronic toothbrush is used for patients that are old enough, however, a handheld may be used for children. The patient should also expect to have their teeth flossed with traditional floss and a water pick. To finish the cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will rinse the mouth with water and suction the remnants away. The other part of dental cleaning is a fluoride application. Fluoride is an essential mineral that keeps the teeth strong. The application will be in liquid or gel form and does not last longer than two to three minutes.
Thorough examination
Another thing that patients should expect from their general dentistry visit is a thorough examination. The examination allows the dentist to check for any abnormalities or imperfections that may require treatment. A dental tool may be used to look beneath the gum pockets, however, this process is usually painless. Any discomfort may indicate a problem, which will be identified and addressed.
X-rays
X-rays are another important aspect of a general dentistry visit, however, they are typically done once a year, instead of twice. X-rays give the dentist a chance to see the teeth, gums, and jaw from a different angle, which is often hard to see with the naked eye. Current technology has allowed for the evolution of digital x-rays, which reduce exposure risks.
Recommendations
A general dentistry visit may also include recommendations or tips. After the cleaning, x-rays, and examination, the general dentist may provide the patient with recommendations or tips on treatment or at-home oral hygiene, both of which can be used to improve oral health.
Find out more about general dentistry visits
Individuals that are looking for more information on general dentistry visits should reach out to ask questions or go over concerns. Additionally, an appointment can be scheduled, which will include all of the information above. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://dentalhealthde.com or call John M. Facciolo D.M.D., P.A. at (302) 652-2451 for an appointment in our Wilmington office. Recent Posts
Wondering why to choose a kid friendly dentist? A child's dental needs are going to differ from a parent's dental needs. This makes it a good idea for parents to find a dental professional who knows how to take care of a child's oral health. It is also a good idea because whenever questions arise…
Sleep apnea is a very common problem that a lot of people suffer from. The disorder can be very dangerous to one's health, however with the help of a dentist the signs can be identified and the appropriate steps can be taken to reduce symptoms.It may be surprising to learn that a dentist plays a…
Dental bonding is a fast and effective way to fix cosmetic dental issues. The procedure is performed using tooth-colored resins that are applied directly to teeth and cured with an ultraviolet light.It takes 30 to 60 minutes to repair a tooth with composite resin. The treatment only requires a single visit to a dentist, and…
Millions of people all over the world live with sleep apnea, however, a good number of those are yet undiagnosed. Most people would probably think of a sleep clinic first for diagnosis and treatment, but the general dentist is sometimes the first professional to discover signs of the condition. They also provide options to ease…
