A Return To The Dentist's Office
Updated: Feb 16, 2022
This past year has been very confusing, limiting and, well, a bit crazy for everyone around the world. Many people put off routine health exams, including dental exams for many reasons. Some healthcare providers operated on limited hours which severely limited the days and or times that patients could physically visit offices. Others offered tele-health services which provided only some ability to maintain communication with physicians. One of the most overlooked health check-ups was the dentist.
One of the most overlooked health check-ups the last year was the dentist.
If it has been an extended period of time since your last visit to the dentist, over a year, here are some things that you can expect.
Extended Comprehensive Cleaning
Depending on your at home dental care, you may have heavier than usual tartar build-up on your teeth. Therefore, it will most likely take a dental hygienist longer to clean your teeth. They cleaning may be a bit more invasive that you are used to as well.
Dental X-Rays
Your dentist will take x-rays to determine if there are any problems or issues that weren’t easily identifiable during the exam or noticed by you during your absence from the dental office. These x-rays will also screen for oral cancer as well as tumors.
Extended Comprehensive Exam
Your dentist will take the appropriate amount of time necessary to discuss your x-rays with you with regard to any findings. In additions, your dentist will spend a bit longer with a visual and exploratory exam to ensure that your oral health is in good shape. Any cavities noted whether by x-ray or visual exam will be addressed. It is imperative that you mention and issues that you have had during the time away from the dentist. Pain chewing, tooth sensitivity, bad breath, etc.
Gum Bleeding
When you visit the dentist after an extended period of time your gums may bleed. Whether it is the dental instrument the dentist is using or the flossing by the hygienist, any gum bleeding is an indication of gingivitis. This is why it is crucial that you maintain flossing on a regular daily basis at home.
Regardless of how good your oral health may be, even after an extended period of time away from the dentist, expect to have a conversation regarding at home dental care. Your dentist will review with you the toothpaste you use, the floss you use, frequency of brushing and for how long as well as any supplementals they may suggest such as particular mouthwashes, etc.
Nervous about your upcoming dental appointment? We offer some tips to help reduce your anxiety. Trust us, they will work!
We can’t stress enough how important routine dental check-ups are to your overall health. Dentists are a vital member of your total healthcare team. A dentist can detect certain signs of health issues like:
• nutritional deficiencies
• systemic diseases
• microbial infections
• immune disorders
• some cancers
If concerns are noted your dentist will liaise with your primary care physician or specialist to ensure you are receiving the best care possible in all facets of your health.
Regardless of how good your oral health may be, even after an extended period of time away from the dentist, expect to have a conversation regarding at home dental care.
Our goal at Serenity Dental Studio is to ensure your oral health is the best it can be. We need you, however, to do your part at home as well as schedule your routine cleanings and check-ups every six months. We have an amazing team of dental hygienists that can answer any questions you have or help you be sure you are performing your oral health regimen at home the RIGHT way.
About Serenity Dental Studio: We are the leading dental studio serving Gulf Shores Alabama and the surrounding area. Our staff provides a calm and serene environment for our patients enabling them to relax and allow us to restore their love for their smile.
Our team of general dentists, specialists, and hygienists work together to create a superior dental team that will help you look and feel your best.
If you’re searching for a dental practice in Gulf Shores AL, we’d love to meet you!
251-968-8789
Do You Follow Us On Social Media?