Getting a dental checkup is important for keeping your smile healthy. These routine exams are your best defence against problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, catching them early before they become more serious and costly to treat. That’s why we recommend you come in every six months to stay on top of your dental health.
But what exactly happens during one? While each checkup can vary from clinic to clinic, there are basic components that make up this routine examination.
Below we’ll take you through each step of a typical dental checkup, so you know exactly what to expect during your visit to our Oakleigh clinic.
Say hello to our receptionist
Your dental checkup begins the moment you step into our clinic. Upon your arrival, a member of our reception team will be there to welcome you. You’ll check in at the front desk, where they will assist you with your new patient form and appointment verification.
Meeting your dentist
After you have settled in, you’ll meet your Oakleigh dentist who will discuss with you what your concerns are and your dental history. It’s important that you’re transparent with your dental history, especially if you’re a new patient or visiting a new dentist. This discussion is important for them to better understand your unique dental needs and help our dentist provide personalised care specific to your goals and situation.
Time for cleaning
After the introductions, your dentist will start working on your teeth with professional cleaning. This cleaning process not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also plays a crucial role in preventing gum disease and tooth decay. Our dental hygienist will perform this important step, which includes:
- Scaling: Remove built-up plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
- Polishing: Smoothing tooth surfaces to remove stains and create a surface that is less susceptible to plaque buildup.
- Flossing: Ensuring that the spaces between your teeth are clean and free from debris.
To strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against decay, we provide fluoride treatment during your visit. This simple yet effective intervention helps fortify your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and promoting long-term oral health.
Getting your teeth examined
Now, it’s time for your dentist to examine your oral health. This comprehensive examination involves the following:
- Tooth Examination: Your dentist looks closely at each tooth for problems like holes, decay, or damage.
- Gum Health: They also look at your gums to make sure they’re healthy and not swollen or bleeding, which are signs of gum disease or gingivitis.
- Bite and Jaw Alignment: Your Oakleigh dentist checks how your teeth fit together when you bite down and if your jaw is aligned properly.
- Oral Cancer Screening: This assessment involves checking the tissues in your mouth for any signs of cancer such as abnormal colouring, lesions or persistent ulceration.
Your dentist will use various dental instruments to ensure that your teeth and gums are thoroughly examined. Don’t worry if you’re a little nervous, that’s completely normal! We will explain the process to you and welcome any questions along the way!
X-Ray evaluation
The final step in your dental appointment involves taking X-rays of your mouth. Dental X-rays allow your dentist to examine areas not visible to the naked eye, revealing potential issues below the surface. During this process, you’ll bite down on a specially designed plastic piece while an X-ray machine is placed against your cheek. This results in an image that shows not only the visible parts of your teeth but also the roots below the gum line and your jaw bones.
Depending on your individual case and dental history, additional X-rays may be necessary for your dentists to monitor changes over time and ensure the long-term health of your smile.
Results and recommendations
Once the checkup is done, your dentist will share their findings with you, using any X-rays and high-definition photos taken so you can understand what’s going on in your mouth. We believe in being upfront and transparent about your dental health, making sure you’re fully informed about any necessary treatments and their associated costs.
If any issues were spotted during the checkup, your dentist may recommend specific treatments to address them such as fillings, crowns and bridges or refer you to a specialist altogether.
Moreover, your dentist will provide guidance on how to maintain your oral health at home. This includes:
- Oral Hygiene Practices: Tips and tricks for effective brushing and flossing to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
- Dietary Recommendations: Advice on which foods are good for your teeth and which ones to avoid to maintain a bright smile.
- Preventive Measures: Recommendations for preventive treatments like sealants or mouthguards to protect your teeth from damage.
- Product Suggestions: Suggestions for dental products such as water flossers, natural mouthwashes like Biosure ozonators, and toothbrushes to enhance your oral hygiene routine.
It’s important that you listen to this advice and apply it diligently to ensure your next checkup goes well. If no extra treatment is needed, your next appointment will likely be scheduled in six months to keep your oral health on track.
If you’re ready to schedule your next dental checkup in Oakleigh, feel free to give us a call on 0456 106 471 or book online to schedule an appointment. We’d be happy to get you started.
