Most patients should visit the dentist for an exam and cleaning every six months to protect their oral health. Here, our Calgary dentists explain what to expect at these visits and why they are so important.
Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months
When it comes to regular dental appointments the goal is prevention. Visiting the dentist every six months allows your dentist to catch and treat problems early.
Oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, and irregularities like cysts and tumors, may not be obvious to the untrained eye in early stages. Your dentist, however, knows exactly what to look for, and has the expertise and tools to identify any issues and treat them before they become serious.
What to Expect at Each Visit
Regular hygiene and prevention appointments, every six months, will include a thorough cleaning and comprehensive exam.
During the cleaning, your hygienist will remove hardened plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line to prevent bacteria buildup which can lead to inflammation and decay.
During the exam, your dentist will take x-rays to help identify any existing or developing dental problems, and complete an oral cancer screening to detect any signs of oral cancer. They will also examine your teeth for signs of decay, and your gums for any signs of periodontal (gum) disease.
Why These Visits Are So Important
Dealing with dental problems before they become serious means that they'll cause less damage in the long rung, and your treatment will be less invasive.
For example, if tooth decay is caught in early stages you will likely only need a small dental filling to repair it. If left untreated, the decay will eventually affect the interior of your tooth and you may require a root canal procedure.
Oral cancers are also far more treatable, and have a much better prognosis, when they are identified and treated early.
