You want a healthy smile, so you brush your teeth every day and floss at least once a day. You have a great start to a healthy smile, but if you’re not going to the dentist regularly, it’s not enough. Let’s discuss the importance of your regular dental checkups and what you need to know before you go, from your Dentist in Philadelphia PA.
What Is a Dental Check Up?
Just as a regular health visit at your doctor helps to ensure your physical health, a regular dental visit helps ensure your oral health. Dental checkups give your dentist the opportunity to check your teeth for damage or signs of tooth decay. These visits also include teeth cleaning to remove any plaque buildup left behind by regular brushing and flossing.
How Often Should You See Your Dentist in Philadelphia PA?
Typically, you should go to your dentist every 6 to 12 months. Just how long you need between visits will depend on factors like,
- Your general oral health
- Any factors that put you at high risk for gum disease or other oral health concerns
- How long it’s been since you’ve had regular dental visits.
We’ll work with you to determine how often you should come see your dentist here at Absolute Smile.
What Happens During a Dental Checkup
It’s important when you visit your dentist, it’s important that you know what to expect. Most dental office visits in Philadelphia, PA have three steps.
Checking Your Overall Health
Before beginning, the dental hygienist will ask about what food and drink you consumer and take your blood pressure. If you need dental X-rays, they will also do those at this time. The X-rays help the dentist see the position of your teeth and gauge the health of your jaw.
Teeth Cleaning
The second step of your regular dental checkup is teeth cleaning. Here, the hygienist will use instruments to help remove tartar and other mineral buildup from your teeth. They’ll then floss and polish your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and stains. They’ll also offer you a fluoride treatment to help prevent cavities.
The Dental Exam
Once the cleaning is complete, your dentist will perform an exam. They will check your teeth and gums as well as do a simple and painless oral cancer screening. They will also feel for lumps along your neck, gums, and under your tongue.
Once the exam is complete, your dentist will determine your personalized dental treatment plan. This may include,
- Tips for maintaining your oral health.
- Tips to manage symptoms of tooth decay or other oral health conditions if they see them.
- Recommendations for specialized care if you need it.
Time and Cost of Your Dentist in Philadelphia, PA
Typically, your dental checkup only takes about 45 minutes, but they can be longer. For example, if your teeth are in poor condition or if it’s been a while since your last visit, it may take longer to clean your teeth or complete the exam. On the other hand, if you’re keeping up with your visits and practicing good oral health at home, your visit will be short.
If you have dental insurance, your visits are covered based on the specific coverage you have. If you don’t have dental insurance, then the cost of your visit will vary based on specific services, such as if you need a deep cleaning or X-rays. At Absolute Smile, we can help create payment plans and go over payment options with you.
Are You Looking for a Dental Office in Philadelphia, PA?
Absolute Smile is here to meet your oral health needs. Contact us today to make an appointment. Take advantage of our free new patient consultation to meet our staff and choose your new family dentist.
