A routine checkup at a dentist is an important part of oral health care. These visits allow your dentist to identify and treat any problems early before they become more serious, painful, and expensive to address.
So how often should you get a routine checkup at a dentist in Phoenix? We’ll cover the importance of dental checkups and what to expect at your next examination. If you are looking for a dentist in Phoenix, be sure to schedule a health checkup today!
What is the importance of dental checkups?
Dental checkups are important because they allow your dentist to identify and treat any problems early before they become more serious. They can catch minor issues, such as gingivitis (bad breath), or much more serious issues, like oral cancer.
As with any medical treatment, your prognosis and treatment options are always better the sooner an issue is detected. When it comes to achieving and maintaining a healthy smile, you don’t want to take risks!
How often should you have a routine dental checkup?
The American Dental Association recommends that you have a routine dental checkup and professional cleaning every six months. This is so that your dentist can monitor your oral health and identify any potential dental problems early on.
Most dental insurance plans cover routine care for up to two visits per year (i.e. every six months). You may need to check with your specific dental insurance to make sure you always schedule your dental office visits within the appropriate coverage window.
Why is it important to have a routine dental checkup every six months?
Routine dental checkups are considered preventive care. That means it’s an important type of healthcare that keeps you from experiencing painful and expensive problems down the road. For example, routine checkups can help your dentist spot tooth decay in its early stages, before it becomes a larger cavity.
Additionally, periodontal disease, left unchecked, can lead to tooth loss. But if it’s caught early during a dental exam, it can be treated and managed successfully. At your dental exam, the dentist will measure periodontal pockets and look for any signs of tooth or bone loss.
Why oral health matters
There are many reasons why oral health matters. Oral health is linked to overall health, which means that keeping your mouth healthy can help you stay healthy overall. Additionally, routine dental checkups can help catch potential problems early, before they become more serious (and more expensive to treat).
For example, gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to tooth loss, and it has also been linked to other health problems such as heart disease and stroke. By getting routine dental checkups and cleaning, you can help your dentist catch gum disease early and prevent it from progressing.
What can you expect at a routine dental checkup?
The first step of a routine dental checkup is typically x-rays, especially if you’re a new patient or if it’s been a while since you’ve been seen. Next, a hygienist will clean your teeth and check for any signs of decay or other problems.
Then you will be seen by the dentist, who will more thoroughly examine your teeth, mouth, tongue, head, and neck. They will also ask you about your oral hygiene habits and make sure you are brushing and flossing properly.
Your dentist may recommend some additional dental treatments, such as filling a cavity or adding fluoride to your teeth to strengthen and protect them. They will review the importance of regular dental checkups and get you scheduled to come back in 6 months.
How long does teeth cleaning take?
Routine teeth cleaning will usually take about half an hour. However, if it’s been a long time since your last cleaning, the process could take a little bit longer to fully clear all your tartar buildup.
Teeth cleaning usually consists of a few steps. First, the hygienist will use a scaler to remove tartar and plaque from the gum line and between teeth. Next, they will clean between your teeth with a water pick and floss, before polishing your teeth with a gritty toothpaste for an extra clean scrub. Lastly, they will rinse your mouth to remove debris until everything feels nice and smooth.
The goal is to leave with a clean mouth and a healthy smile. Part of the bonus of regular dental checkups is that it makes each visit much quicker and easier!
How to pay for dental visits
There are a few ways that patients can pay for dental visits. If you have dental insurance, your routine checkups will likely be covered. You can also pay for dental visits out-of-pocket or with a flexible spending account (FSA).
19th Ave. Dental Care also offers membership plans for our patients to help cover the costs of treatments and seeing our dentists regularly.
Schedule a dental health checkup in Phoenix today
If you are looking for a dentist in Phoenix, be sure to schedule a routine dental health checkup today! Regular dental visits are an important part of maintaining good health. Your dentist can identify potential problems early on and help you maintain a healthy mouth and a healthy smile.
If it has been more than six months since your last routine dental visit, call our office today to schedule an appointment. Our friendly staff would be happy to answer any questions you may have about scheduling a routine dental checkup.
At 19th Ave. Dental Care, we are always accepting new patients. Schedule an appointment with us today by calling (602) 433-0313 or visiting our website at 19avedentalcare.com. Our team of experienced and skilled dentists provides comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.
We offer a variety of services such as routine cleanings and exams, fillings, crowns and bridges, implants, teeth whitening, veneers, and more. We accept most major insurance plans and offer financing options for those who need them. Don’t wait any longer to get the dental care you deserve – call 19th Ave. Dental Care today. We look forward to seeing you soon!