When Should You Go to the Dentist?

Most of us know that regularly visiting the dentist is critical for maintaining oral health, but how many of us do so? If you want to know more about how an expert in family dentistry in San Jose can help you, we've got you covered.

How frequently should you visit the dentist, and why is it so critical? Continue reading to find out how often you should have a dental checkup, as well as how it may help your general health.

How Frequently Should You Visit Your Dentist?

According to conventional dental advice in the United States, both children and adults should see a dentist every six months for a cleaning and oral exam.  

Many dental insurance companies cover two checkups each year, and this frequency helps dentists identify any issues early on when they're still minor and treatable.

The frequency with which you should visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning will be determined by your dentist. Most individuals only need to see the dentist every six months if they follow proper dental hygiene, but there are rare exceptions.

How to Prepare for Your Dental Exam

A dental examination generally takes one hour or less. This visit allows your dentist and dental hygienist to assess your oral health and provide treatment and at-home hygiene recommendations.

Although each dental office has its methods for a checkup, you may expect the following at your six-month appointment:

Polishing and Cleaning

Dental cleaning has several advantages. Scalers and other dental instruments will be used to carefully remove plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces and just below the gum line by the hygienist. They will next use a paste to polish your teeth and floss in between them.

Your hygienist may point out places where you should pay extra attention when brushing your teeth. They may also show you how to brush and floss your teeth properly.

Screening for Oral Cancer

When treating oral cancer, your dentist is generally the first line of defense, as they are more likely to detect it before another doctor. This is one of the reasons why regular dental examinations are so vital. Oral cancer spreads fast. Therefore, early identification is critical for effective treatment.

Detection Of Cavities

Your dentist will then inspect your teeth for any signs of decay, cracks, chips, or other damage that needs to be addressed. The dental hygienist helps them by recording any teeth that need to be treated.

Existing Dental Work's Condition

Fillings and other dental treatments do not remain indefinitely, which is why a dentist inspects them during an examination. If the present filling, crown, or bridge is no longer keeping a tooth strong and healthy, they will recommend a new one.

Gum Health Evaluation

In addition, your dentist will examine your gums for symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis. They'll look for pockets around each tooth where germs and plaque have built up beneath the gum line, causing the gums to peel away.

Periodontitis, on the other hand, requires special treatment from a periodontist. Gingivitis may be prevented and reversed with good at-home oral care and frequent dental cleanings, while periodontitis requires specialized treatment from a periodontist.

Looking for an Expert in Family Dentistry in San Jose?

It's all about preventative care if you keep up with your routine dental checkups and cleanings. Instead of simply seeing a dentist when you're in pain, treating dental issues early on is less expensive and takes less time in the dentist's office.

Visiting a family dentistry expert in San Jose regularly should be routine, just like seeing your primary care physician for checkups. Contact Center for Advanced Dentistry today!