What to Expect at a Visit to the Dentist

First time appointment with your dentist may feel daunting and many Americans avoid seeing a dentist due to fear and anxiety. However, your dental health should not be taken for granted. When it comes to visiting a dentist there are a few things which you need to consider.

Firstly, you should find a good dentist near your area and secondly, you must feel completely comfortable with your dentist. To alleviate fears you must know what to expect from a dentist. Here is a guide to help you understand what to expect at a dental visit:

The receptionist at the dental office will take down the details:

Usually when you visit a dental office, you would first meet the receptionist. On the first visit, a reputed dental clinic like, Baer Dental Designs in Aurora, CO will take your full health history. You will have to register as a new patient, fill a short questionnaire about your oral health and mention your contact details. The receptionist should welcome you and answer your questions patiently.

Oral health evaluation:

At your first appointment, a new dentist will evaluate your oral health and this process is quite simple. It doesn’t take more than five minutes and it is a painless procedure. During the mouth inspection your dentist will raise questions regarding your oral health or issues if any. You should explain about the problems if any.

Counting teeth and fillings:

The dentist will count your teeth, fillings, etc. if they exist and make use of a dental instrument to check the space between your teeth and gums. The assistant of the dentist usually writes things down and this process is called dental charting. Dental records will be created so whenever you visit the dentist, these records can help the dentist to understand your dental condition and give you a treatment if required for any problems you may be facing.

Your dentists will also make sure you are comfortable. The dentist will also provide tips on how to take care of your teeth in a proper way. If everything is fine, your dentist would recommend checkup in every six months which will help you maintain your teeth and prevent any teeth problems from developing.

Thorough cleaning:

Checkups include complete cleaning of the teeth where the dentist will use special instruments to scrape the gum line, remove any built up plaque or tartar which may be responsible for gum diseases, bad breath or any other issues. The dentist may floss and polish your teeth as well.

X rays:

X rays are recommended depending on your dental needs. It also depends on your age, disease risks and symptoms. X rays are useful for diagnosing unnoticed problems like damaged jawbones, formation of cysts or tumors, tooth decay, etc. These are usually not understood by an individual until it starts to give trouble. Therefore, dental checkups are important as a good dentist like Baer Dental Designs in Aurora, CO run a proper examination to diagnose these issues. They also use modern technology or machines to treat such conditions professionally.

These are few things which you can expect when you visit a dentist. If your teeth are in good shape then you would need to visit a dentist every three to six months to maintain your oral health. However, if a treatment is required you must book an appointment with your dentist before you leave. Always ask questions to feel comfortable with your dentist and his treatment plan. This will allow you to understand your oral health concerns and speak to your dentist without hesitation.  It will also keep your teeth in good shape.