The beginning of a new year is the perfect time for a general dentistry checkup. Starting the year off with a great oral hygiene plan will help you continue to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Routine visits to your general dentist will prevent many dental problems such as:
Cavities
Gum disease
Tooth decay
Misaligned teeth
Missing teeth
Discolored teeth
Buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar on your teeth and gums can wreak havoc on your beautiful smile. Bacteria can buildup under your gum line and start the beginning phases of gum disease. Brushing and flossing can help prevent this buildup. If you do have buildup, only your general dentist will be able to catch gum disease in its early stages and stop it from developing into a more serious problem.
General Dentistry Checkups
Most routine general dentistry checkups include:
A full mouth exam
A dental cleaning
Dental x-rays as needed
Your general dentist will examine your entire mouth. This exam is necessary to discover any dental issues that require treatment. If you do require treatment, your general dentist will discuss with you the dental issues and your treatment options. Depending on the treatment needed, you may be able to have the treatment at your checkup or you may have to schedule another appointment.
A dental hygienist will do a thorough cleaning of your teeth to remove the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar. Your dental hygienist may also take dental x-rays if you are due for new x-rays. X-rays are not taken at every visit and are only taken if a dental issue is discovered or if updated images are needed.
General Dentistry Treatments
There are many general dentistry treatments available to improve the health of your smile and enhance your smile's appearance. Your general dentist will suggest the treatments needed to correct the dental issues you have.
If your dentist is also trained in cosmetic dentistry, you may also be able to request a cosmetic dental treatment if there is an aspect of your smile that you would like to improve. For example, you can straighten crooked teeth with Invisalign or even get a whole new smile with porcelain veneers.