What Should You Expect at a Regular Dental Visit?
A visit to your dentist does not have to be something causing anxiety. Dentists and hygienists want to help you, and they will make your office visit as relaxing as possible.
You might sometimes watch a movie or TV. They could extend a more intensive procedure into several visits, so it is not so much in one sitting. There are options for pain relief or sedation available as well.
Maintaining your regular dental visits will put you closer to better health and enjoying your smile.
Before Your Appointment
Plan ample time off from your daily schedule to feel less rushed or anxious. When you make your appointment, ask how long your exam and cleaning usually take, then add a little extra cushion time. Your time in the dental chair will be longer if it has been a while since your last visit. An end-of-day appointment is also a great option, so you can head home.
If you have dental insurance, confirm if your dentist is in their network prior to scheduling your appointment. You may have a co-pay while at the office, or your dentist may invoice you the balance once your insurance pays them. If you do not currently have dental insurance, ask ahead of time how much you will need to pay at your appointment.
Arrive early so you can fill out paperwork, or turn in the forms if they are available online, giving the staff ample time to check you in. Also, have your driver's license and insurance cards ready when you arrive at reception.
A Routine Visit
A dental hygienist will first cover your chest with an apron, and you may receive eye shields to wear as well. You may notice a tray of dental hand tools. The hygienist will use these tools, addressing one tooth at a time, to scrape away any buildup of plaque and tartar on your teeth and along the gumline. They also floss between their teeth.
If you experience any discomfort with your jaw or mouth during the cleaning, let the hygienist know. You are also able to take breaks when needed.
After your cleaning is finished, you will rinse well. Using a power tool with a tiny spinning head, the hygienist next polishes your teeth. You could even get to choose the flavor of polish. You now rinse again.
Usually, you will get X-rays once a year to identify problems that are new or cannot be seen.
Next, your dental team will conduct a thorough exam, checking each tooth and looking for unusual pockets or gaps between your teeth and gums.
A small tool called a periodontal probe will help the dentist identify problem spots. It will also measure the depth of any pockets around your teeth. The hygienist records any notes in your chart.
In summary, your dentist will share observations and suggest any recommendations.
After Your Visit
If your mouth is sore, you may consider an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Call your dental office between your regular visits if you have questions, your teeth hurt, or your jaw swells. An issue such as a broken tooth is an emergency, and you should notify your dentist immediately.