With the Covid-19 pandemic and enforced regulations, some people have more excuses for not visiting the dentist for a routine check-up just because they worry about it. This fear can be termed unfounded as it stems from the fear of pain and the fear of the unknown.
But what exactly happens when you go in for a routine check-up? Knowing what goes on can help lessen the fear and provide insight to patients. This information will also help you answer another question, is routine dental care worth the effort?
What happens during a routine dental visit?
Firstly, a healthcare facility is one of the places where the Covid-19 regulations are strictly enforced. There is no need to worry about that when you schedule a visit. Once you are there an oral assessment is conducted. Not only will the dentist check your teeth, but also your tongue, throat, gums, and overall oral health. This stresses the importance of routine dental care. Sometimes an X-ray is required to check in between the teeth for cavities.
The dentist will check for tartar or plaque build-up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that is usually clear. Tartar is a hardened plaque that was left uncleaned. Afterward, a special tool will be used to check your gums. The space between your gums and teeth should not be big; it would otherwise indicate a problem. An overall checkup is then done to check for any cause for concern – inflammation or redness.
Cleaning is the next step. Although plaque can be removed by regular brushing of teeth, tartar cannot. Special tools are used by dental professionals to remove it in a process called scaling. Your teeth may then be polished to remove any residue on the teeth surface. Floss is also used to clean the teeth.
If there is any trouble detected, appointments may be scheduled for further works like filling and root canal.
Home routine dental care
The importance of routine dental care at home should not be minimized. Toothpaste advertisements always remind us that we should brush our teeth at least two times a day or ideally three times a day – after every meal. We should not take it for granted since it helps remove plaque from teeth which prevents the formation of tartar.
We are also advised to floss our teeth at least once a day in each space to ensure that they are clean. Mouthwash can also be used to prevent bacteria build-up in the mouth and maintain a fresh breath.
Why is routine dental care important?
Prevention is better than cure summarizes the importance of routine dental care. Once you have a dental care routine, it will be easy to detect problems way before they develop into big issues. This saves you a lot of pain during treatment.
For example, after eating or drinking the bacteria on your teeth produces acids that can cause cavities or gum disease which can lead to tooth loss. If you have been through tooth extraction then you are well aware of how painful it is.
Is it worth it?
It is said that the most beautiful curve on a woman’s body is her smile. But it goes for everyone. Investing in your dental care is worth the while.
Know more information about Kesteven Dental Care
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