Only about 65% of adults over 18 have had a cleaning and check-up in the last year, and about 25% of adults aged 25-64 have untreated cavities. Regular exams and cleanings help find and treat problems before they get too big, preventing larger health issues and improving your overall health and wellness. 

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups

Dental check-ups are a cornerstone of oral healthcare and have several long-term benefits. Routine visits help find and treat problems, protect teeth, and remove plaque buildup. 

Aim to see your dentist every six months. But keep in mind that you may need to go more often if you are prone to cavities or have gum disease or other oral health problems. 

Preventative Dentistry

Preventive care is screening, assessment, treatment, or other services that stop dental problems from developing or worsening. For instance, your dentist might suggest dental sealants for your child's new teeth to prevent tooth decay and cavities. These early treatments can save money in the long run, helping you avoid expensive treatments like a root canal or a dental implant after tooth loss. 

Dental Health and Overall Health 

Emerging research also shows that oral infections are linked to pre-diabetes and diabetes or affect heart health. In early animal studies, bacteria that cause gum disease affect liver and pancreas cells and lead to the development of insulin resistance and inability to use glucose properly. Regular check-ups help manage these bacteria and conditions, improving your dental health and overall wellness.  

What to Expect During a Dental Check-Up

A dental check-up typically involves a few main steps, including a dental exam, a professional cleaning, and dental X-rays. It takes about one hour, during which you will see a dental hygienist and dentist. 

Comprehensive Oral Examination

A key step in the dental check-up is an oral exam. Your dentist will inspect your teeth and mouth and check for signs of decay, gum disease, and cavities. However, a comprehensive exam is a more thorough, deep dive into your oral health and may also involve inspection of your jaw, neck, and other mouth tissues.

Dental X-rays

Part of the exam process also includes a full set of dental x-rays. Imaging helps your dentist see your jaw bones, tooth roots, sinus cavities, and nerves. With complete X-rays, they can check for cavities, infections, bone loss, cysts or tumors, abscesses, and unerupted or impacted teeth. X-rays also provide a history of your tooth health, and your dentist can compare changes from year to year. 

Professional Cleaning 

A dental check-up also includes professional teeth cleaning. During a cleaning, a hygienist uses a scaling tool to gently scrape away plaque build-up between or on the surface of your teeth and around your gums. They may also use ultrasonic scalers with water and vibration to help remove build-up.  

Key Components of a Dental Check-Up

A few key components are also essential to an effective dental check-up and may happen during different steps of your appointment. These include oral cancer screening, periodontal health exams, and fluoride treatments. 

Oral Cancer Screening

Your dentist checks for many potential issues during your exam, including oral cancer. Typically, you’ll fill out or review your medical and lifestyle history before your appointment, which will include questions about habits like heavy drinking and tobacco use. 

These habits and other risks may predispose you to oral cancer, so your dentist will inspect your mouth to check for signs of precancerous or cancerous spots or sores. If your dentist finds an irregular sore, you may need additional tests.

Periodontal Health Exam

Gum disease is common and varies from mild forms like gingivitis to advanced forms called periodontitis. These conditions cause swollen, red, and bleeding gums, which may advance to loss of gum tissue as it pulls away from teeth. 

Bacteria can collect in pockets or gaps around teeth and cause infections. Teeth may become loose and unstable, eventually leading to tooth loss. Part of a dental check-up is to examine gum health, keep teeth and gums healthy, and advise on oral hygiene habits for gum disease prevention.

Fluoride Treatments 

During a dental check-up, you may receive a fluoride varnish, rinse, gel, or foam. Regular fluoride treatments, especially for young children, can help lower your risk of decay and cavities. 

Fluoride strengthens the enamel on your teeth, replacing lost minerals from bacteria and acid breakdown over time. It can also lower the amount of acid bacteria create in your teeth and make it harder for these acids to stick to your teeth. 

The Impact of Regular Check-Ups on Adult Dental Care

Aging affects the entire body and causes changes in your cells, tissues, and organs, including your teeth and gums. Bones become fragile and less dense, tissues thin and lose elasticity, and cells renew less quickly. 

Years of wear and tear may break down enamel, bone, and gum tissue, leading to common problems. Staying on top of your oral health as you age prevents serious health conditions and manages comfort and quality of life. 

Addresses Common Dental Issues 

For instance, regular check-ups keep tabs on cavities, receding gums, and sensitivity as you age. With early intervention, you can prevent small problems from becoming large ones. Plus, good hygiene habits and oral health maintenance may help you keep your natural teeth healthier for longer, avoiding implants or dentures. 

Psychological Benefits

Dental anxiety or fear is common and affects 13% to 24% of people in the world. However, regular exposure and advanced dental care options like sedation can help reduce your anxiety so you can get the treatment you need. Your smile and oral health improve, boosting your self-image and confidence. 

Preventing Tooth Decay and Maintaining Oral Hygiene 

A dental check-up is also a good time to review your oral hygiene routine and diet for tooth decay prevention. Your dentist and hygienist may identify concerns and suggest better brushing and flossing techniques or products to help you get better results. 

An Effective Oral Care Routine 

Good dental health is mostly about consistency with your self-care. That means brushing your teeth twice daily for two to three minutes and flossing between your teeth at least once daily. Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled brush, and clean your teeth with a gentle, circular motion on the front, back, and chewing surfaces. 

Healthy Diet 

Diet is also critical to overall healthy teeth. A diet high in sugary foods and drinks is linked to cavities, so focus on eating plenty of whole foods and limit candies, cookies and cakes, soda, and other sweet treats. Eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, nuts and seeds, and healthy fats to ensure you get enough vitamins and minerals and for healthy teeth and gums. 

Book a Dental Checkup in Malcomb at Opal Dental Group

Regular dental check-ups help maintain good oral health and prevent cavities and gum disease. Our team at Opal Dental Group is committed to delivering excellent care and building lasting relationships as a trusted partner in lifelong dental care. Book an appointment online. We’ll be in touch.