Amidst life’s hustle and bustle, it’s easy to lose track of dental care for a while. Trips to the dentist can seem less important than work, family obligations, major holidays, etc. With that said, maybe you need a refresher on dental visits as your next one approaches. There’s no need to worry; your Frisco practice has you covered. Read on to learn what to expect when you haven’t seen your dentist in a while.
Review of Medical History
To start, your visit will likely begin with a check of your medical history. Your dentist will want to know about recent changes in your health.
Your body has almost certainly changed since your last dental appointment. In particular, you’ve likely had new illnesses, surgeries, or medications in the time between visits. Your dentist will want to confirm such changes to provide the best care possible. If they don’t, they might not tailor your treatment properly; that’d put your oral health at risk.
A Thorough Oral Exam
You should expect a thorough oral exam after the review of your medical history. Through this step, the dentist detects changes in your smile since the last assessment.
The exam may feel longer than ones you’ve had before, but that’s only natural. Your dentist will need to document years’ worth of changes in your teeth, gums, lips, etc. Doing so will require they take their time; they might not note everything otherwise. Indeed, they may even need to take new dental X-rays to check for hidden issues.
Extensive Teeth Cleaning
Once the exam is over, you should expect extensive teeth cleaning. This phase of your visit removes harmful substances from your mouth.
The cleaning is certain to find (and take out) a lot of plaque. A lot of this bacterial film gathers when you don’t see a dentist often, as a toothbrush and floss can’t reach every part of your smile. Given these facts, a hygienist will spend much of the checkup removing your plaque. They’ll likely take more time than they would if you attended visits every six months.
A Treatment Plan Discussion
To wrap up your visit, the dentist will discuss a potential treatment plan with you. Such a talk ensures your oral health is stable in the long run.
The discussion will revolve around relevant procedures you’d benefit from. For example, perhaps the dentist will suggest fillings or crowns that treat cavities you’ve developed. They might also advise more frequent maintenance visits, which would prevent further harm to your weak smile. Regardless, know that the dentist’s suggestions would strengthen your grin.
You needn’t panic if you haven’t seen your dentist in a while. Instead, note the points above and prepare for your next checkup!
About the Practice
Plush Dentistry is based in Frisco, TX. Led by Drs. Ali and Kraipak, our practice combines top-tier dental work with warm, personalized, and comfortable care. We always account for your needs in treatment, whether you’re getting a dental checkup or a full-blown “smile makeover.” That means you can trust us to give you the dreamiest grin possible! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (469)-256-7098.