Categories: Dental Cleaning and Examinations

Preparing for Your Dental Examination

It is helpful to have an idea of what to expect during your dental cleaning and examinations. This allows you to properly prepare mentally and physically before you go and calm any anxieties you may experience before your visit.

What to expect during your dental examination

Of course, every dental examination is unique as every dentist has their own process and treats each patient in a unique way. However, there are certain expectations you can have. The following is a review of what you can expect during your dental examination and how you can prepare at home.

The purpose of a dental examination

A dental examination is a dental visit that seeks to identify any oral health concerns or the early signs of a potential oral health concern. Most patients also receive a dental cleaning during the visit as well, which removes plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of teeth.

A dental examination is primarily a preventive measure, although the dentist may make additional treatment recommendations if certain oral health complications are detected. They are important as identifying issues in the early stages allows for more effective and often less invasive treatment. The visit also provides an opportunity for the dentist to educate the patient on good oral health practices to implement at home.

What takes place during a dental examination

As mentioned, the process for a dental examination varies depending on the dentist’s specific process and the specific needs of the patient. However, the visit may include the following:

Discussing oral health concerns

An oral examination
Dental X-rays
A routine cleaning
Educating the patient
Additional treatment options

Patients do not require dental X-rays at every visit. If the patient has good oral health, then they will not need any additional dental treatments. The entire visit takes less than an hour in most cases and the patient can continue living their daily life normally after the visit as there is no recovery time needed.

How to prepare before the dental exam

Many patients are nervous before they visit the dentist, which is a condition known as dental anxiety. Patients can deal with this issue by learning more about what to expect during a dental examination. This helps address any misconceptions the patient may have. Also, scheduling the appointment at a convenient time can help patients avoid rushing to the appointment and making anxiety worse. Lastly, getting a good night of rest always helps prepare before a dental visit.

How to care for your oral health at home

Dental examinations are encouraged every four to six months. Between each visit, patients should care for their teeth at home through a consistent oral care routine that involves brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Also, reducing foods and drinks high in sugar and other carbohydrates and drinking water throughout each day can help avoid oral health concerns.