Visiting a dentist for the first time

For most people, two yearly dental checkups are sufficient. But if someone have special problems or he or she is at a high risk for periodontal disease, then he or she may need to visit a dentist frequently. On the first visit dentist will take a full health history and background. On next visits, the dentist will follow up the dental health status. Here’s what someone can expect during most visits to the dentist.

Dental Checkups include full cleaning, from the dentist. A dentist using special instruments, will scrape below the gum line, remove tartar and plaque that causes gum disease, bad breath, cavities, and other dental problems. Dentist also polishes and flosses the teeth. Dentist performs a thorough examination of the gums, teeth and mouth, looks for signs of disease or other dental problems. His or her goal is to help maintain good oral health and provide advice to prevent severe problems, by identifying problems and treating those as soon as possible. Dental exams may also include counseling regarding diet, tobacco products use and other lifestyle factors that can have an effect on oral health.

Depending on patients age, symptoms, risks of disease, the dentist may recommend dental X-rays. Digital X-rays can diagnose dental problems, like impacted teeth, damaged jawbones, abscesses, tumors or cysts, and decayed teeth. A modern dentist uses machines that do not emit radiation. As a preventative measure, everyone should always wear an apron while having an X-ray. If the patient is pregnant, the dentist needs to be informed, as X-rays is only used in emergency situations. The dentist may go for a Panorex X-ray or Panoramic. This type of X-ray machine provides a full view of upper and lower jaw in a single picture, and allows the dentist understand the bite and the relationship between the teeth and arch. If the teeth and gums are in good condition, the patient probably may need not to return for 3 to 6 months. If advanced treatment is required like, fill a cavity, repair a broken crown or remove a wisdom tooth one should fix an appointment before visiting the dentist’s office. Feel free to ask questions to the dentist as it is the best time to gather knowledge.  

In some cases, the dentist will recommend making a dental impression of jaws to produce a replica of the teeth. The dentist will fill horseshoe shaped trays with a soft material and place that over the upper or lower teeth. After a few minutes, the trays will be removed to create a dental cast of the mouth.