Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a happy, healthy smile and gums. That’s why they are recommended every six months, and for some patients more often.
During a check-up, the dentist may recommend x-rays be taken; for more information, please see Integra Dental, PA’s section on digital x-rays. After x-rays are taken, the dentist or dental hygienist will proceed with recording information about the patient’s oral health condition into our computerized software. Information such as: number, location, and type of fillings present; missing teeth; and areas of concern will be recorded. From there, a periodontal exam will take place.
About once a year, “probings,” or measurements of the pockets that form between the tooth and the gums, will be recorded. Based on those measurements and information obtained from the x-rays, a special deep cleaning may be recommended instead of a traditional cleaning. Please see Integra Dental, PA’s section on scaling/root planing for more information on deep cleanings. If a traditional cleaning is advised, the dentist or dental hygienist will use specialized instruments to access hard-to-reach areas above and below the gumline to remove tartar, plaque, and food debris. As a finishing touch, the teeth are polished and flossed.
Perhaps most important of all is the oral cancer screening and soft tissue exam, where the gums, lips, tongue, palate, and other areas of the mouth are closely examined for any abnormalities or areas of concern. The dentist also does a thorough check to look for cavities. Any findings or recommended treatments are discussed with the patient, and a customized treatment plan is made that outlines those recommendations. It is important to ask questions and discuss any concerns you have with the dentist, dental hygienist, and/or dental assistant.
