The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
We need regular dental checkups to keep our mouths and gums healthy. If you are going to the dentist every six months, we can easily find early cavities and detect decay on the teeth early. If you are starting to have gum disease, we can identify it. In order to prevent the progression of the disease, it's important to have a checkup every six months.
How often should I get a dental checkup?
For most people, it should be every six months, but depending on the condition of your mouth, sometimes we advise patients to come back after three or four months. Regular dental exams help prevent oral health issues, certainly. By treating and examining patients regularly, we can detect the initiation of oral cancer or any kind of disease or jaw problem at an early stage. We include examination of the teeth, soft tissue, jaw, and TMJ to ensure everything is in good condition.
What does a dental checkup involve?
During the dental checkup, a dentist looks for cavities or signs of gum disease. Most of the population has gingivitis, and the good news is gingivitis is reversible. Without regular exams, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which is irreversible.
The dentist also checks for signs of oral cancer on your tongue, floor of the mouth, or cheeks, and examines your TMJ. We check for any grinding at night or other issues in your mouth. Normally, a dental checkup takes 45 minutes to an hour, but depending on the condition of your mouth, it may take longer.
Does a dental checkup hurt?
Normally it doesn't, unless you have an acute infection or your gums are badly inflamed. In that case, there may be some discomfort, but our hygienist is excellent and ensures you do not experience any unnecessary pain.
How can I schedule a dental checkup?
Your dental health matters to us, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re looking for expert dental care near Kansas City, MO, call (816) 439-7715 or email [email protected] to learn more. Ready to get started? Schedule your appointment below.