At American Dental, we know that people of all ages have reservations about going to the dentist. While fear of the dentist is common in adults and children alike, there’s really nothing to be afraid of. In fact, not visiting the dentist regularly can lead to even scarier consequences like tooth decay and gum disease. Today, we would like to tell you about what you can expect during a typical dental checkup so you can see that there’s nothing to be afraid of.
What Services are Included in a Dental Checkup?
When you arrive at your dentist’s office, you will check in with the receptionist, and you will be called when a hygienist is ready to see you. Your hygienist will guide you to an examination chair, then fit you with a bib and goggles to protect you during your checkup. They may ask you some questions about your oral health routine and other lifestyle choices. Answer honestly so your dental team can deliver the best care for you.
Next, your hygienist will check the health of your teeth and gums. They may use an instrument to measure the gaps between your teeth and gums to determine if you are at risk for gum disease. They may also perform a mouth cancer screening and examine the soft tissues of your throat, neck, soft palette, and gums for any signs of cancer or other abnormalities. If your dentist has ordered it, your hygienist will take some x-rays as well. You will be directed to the x-ray machine and fitted with a protective apron. The x-ray process only takes a few minutes and any discomfort you experience will be minimal.
Now, it’s time for your cleaning. Using a variety of tools, your hygienist will remove any plaque or tartar buildup from your teeth and gum line, then polish your teeth. You may experience some minor discomfort or bleeding during this process but the benefits of getting your teeth professionally cleaned far outweigh any pain you feel. Not only that, but your bi-annual cleaning will decrease your chances of developing even more painful conditions in the future.
When the cleaning is done, your dentist will stop in and examine your teeth to see if there is anything the hygienist missed. If any cavities were identified during your cleaning, your dentist and hygienist will talk to you about your options for having them filled. You may also receive a fluoride treatment during your visit to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities in the future. Now, all you have to do is schedule your next visit!
Dental Checkups in the Chicago Area
Now that you know what to expect from a dental checkup, we know you want to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If you live in the Chicago area, American Dental has seven locations to serve you. Call us at (773) 897-3218 or click the “Make an Appointment” button to find the clinic closest to you and schedule your appointment today! We are also an emergency dentist in Chicago, IL, so call us if you ever have a dental emergency.