Skipping your dental check-ups can put your health at risk. Consistent dental appointments are vital for maintaining the smile that showcases your inner joy. If you are in Grand Rapids, MI, schedule an appointment with Life-Centered Dentistry today. Continue reading to learn why you should not miss your regular dental checkups.
What are Dental Checkups?
Dental checkups are routine dental appointments that include a dental examination and cleaning. Dental visits are recommended at different intervals of time based on individual needs. Dental appointments typically last one hour. At your dental checkup, your dentist will examine any issues you are having with your teeth, mouth, and gums and give you oral care advice. This may include teeth cleaning habits, diet, and lifestyle tips affecting your dental health. A dental checkup may include X-rays. Why X-rays? To see is to know…not to see is to guess…and we don’t want to guess about your health.
Thorough Cleaning
Although brushing and flossing are critical factors in your dental routine, daily cleaning is not thorough enough. At home, oral care does not always reach the hard-to-access areas in your mouth. During a dental checkup, your hygienist will use dental equipment to thoroughly clean hard-to-reach places in your mouth to eliminate plaque and tartar buildup. They may also perform preventative services during your visit, such as fluoride treatments or dental sealant treatments.
Dental Examination
Dental checkups aren’t just professional cleanings. During dental checkups, Dr. Ludwig or Dr. Huber will examine your teeth, gums, and cheeks. This can help you look for potential signs of gum disease and tooth decay and create restorative and preventative treatment plans. Your doctor will also assess your bite to determine if you are at risk for TMJ-related issues.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your dental examination is not exclusively focused on your teeth and gums. Your doctor will also perform an oral cancer screening, looking at your tongue, throat, neck, and other oral issues. This will help you catch lesions, lumps, sores, and other oral abnormalities that can signify mouth cancer.
Dental Advice
You can ask for advice regarding your dental hygiene routine at home during your dental checkup. Learning the little details from a professional can make a big difference in your oral health. This is a great time to learn reliable tips for maintaining and improving dental health. Whether you have questions about flossing or want to understand the ins and outs of new oral health tools, we have professionals here to help you.
Schedule an Appointment
To stay current on oral health, contact us today to schedule an appointment at Life-Centered Dentistry in Grand Rapids, MI. Notice the benefits of regular dental checkups with the help of our highly skilled team. Our dental team looks forward to providing you with top-notch dental care.