Dental Visit Expectations

Annual dental appointments are far more extensive than just cleaning teeth. Your dentist will perform a variety of procedures and evaluations to not only clean your mouth but ensure you are maintaining the best oral health possible. Here are the top areas of focus to expect at your visit:

General Cleaning

The most common procedure occurring in your annual dental appointment will be your professional cleaning. This process includes removing deposits or stains from the teeth, demonstrating proper oral hygiene techniques, and providing a fluoride treatment if needed.

Oral and Overall Health

At some point in the visit, your dentist des moines iowa will ask questions regarding your oral and overall health practices to monitor any concerns that could affect your treatment. For instance, patients diagnosed with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease, requiring extra attention in this area during appointments. Being honest with your dentist about your medical conditions or medications you are taking is essential in creating an effective oral treatment plan and preventing future dental issues.

Risk of Decay (Teeth, Roots, Gums)

Using some of the information provided in the oral and overall health evaluation, your dentist may also ask about any non-medical lifestyle choices that could put you at risk for oral decay. These areas include tobacco and alcohol habits, hygiene regimens, general diet, etc. Again, honesty is always the best policy in ensuring your dentist has the best information available for your treatment.

Restoration Needs

With some patients, it may be necessary to discuss the restoration of one, some, or all of the teeth. After an oral examination, your dentist will open a discussion to review your options for prosthetic teeth, including dentures or an implant. This conversation may also address referrals needed to a specialist, such as an oral surgeon, to assist in the restoration of your teeth.

Bite and Jaw Issues

During your annual visit, your dentist will keep a close eye on the functioning of your bite and jaw. Depending on your age, providers often make recommendations for orthodontic care if problems are arising due to improper placements. Impressions may be taken to measure and assess your bite further to properly identify treatment for the concern.

Dental X-rays

There are several types of dental X-rays your provider may take depending on the issues they are evaluating. Using a variety of different angles, dentists look scans of your bite, bones, jaw placement, and teeth spacing to get a closer look at the structure of your mouth.

Oral Cancer

Typically performed after the general cleaning, your dentist will continue to check for any signs of oral cancer. Dentists evaluate for cancer by examining your entire mouth, including the tongue, floor, and roof. They will also physically exam the sides of your neck, under the jaw, and inside the cheek and lips to feel for abnormalities or swelling. By attending your annual appointments regularly, your dentist will be able to keep a close eye on your oral health and help you achieve an overall healthier lifestyle.