Did you know that going to the dentist as a family has benefits? Families who prioritize dental checkups have better oral health than those who don’t. Regular dental cleanings and exams are essential for maintaining healthy smiles. Parents who model good dental habits for their children establish a foundation for excellent oral health that can last a lifetime.
What Does a Dental Checkup Entail?
When you or your child come in for your dental checkup, you can expect it to include the following:
- Comprehensive Oral Examination. A thorough evaluation of the mouth, including the teeth and soft tissues, to identify any potential oral health concerns. An oral cancer screening is a key part of this examination.
- Teeth Cleaning. The teeth are thoroughly cleaned to remove plaque and calculus in order to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Dental X-rays. Digital radiographs may be taken to detect cavities or other issues that are not readily visible. These may also be used to assess the development of the teeth and jaw for children.
- Fluoride Treatment. As a preventive measure, fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and make them more resistant to cavities.
Benefits of Regular Dental Visits
- Early detection. When oral health concerns are detected early, treatment is less complex with better outcomes. Filling cavities when they are small can prevent the need for a root canal in the future. Early detection of oral cancer improves survival rates.
- Preserve the natural teeth. Those who go to the dentist for regular visits are more likely to keep their natural teeth healthy and in place for their lifetime.
- Save money. Preventive care is often fully covered by dental insurance, and it can help you avoid more expensive treatments.
- Prevent gum disease. Regular teeth cleanings can prevent gum disease, a bacterial infection of the gum tissue that can seriously threaten your oral health if it is allowed to progress.
Making Dental Care Convenient
Scheduling regular dental visits for the whole family at the same time can make dental care more convenient. It also offers parents the opportunity to model good habits. Children are less likely to be afraid of dental checkups when their parents are there setting a positive example.
Choosing the Right Dentist for Your Family
When it comes to choosing a dentist for your family, there are some key criteria to look for:
- Family dentist. Start by choosing a dentist who caters to families so that everyone can go to the same place to receive care.
- Qualifications. Check the credentials of any dentist you are considering to ensure they are qualified and licensed to provide family dental services.
- Compassion. People of all ages, but especially children, deserve the utmost compassion when it comes to their dental care.
- Comprehensive services. Choose a dentist who offers a wide range of services so that all of your family’s needs can be met under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions About Routine Dental Checkups
Does a dental checkup hurt?
Your comfort is always our top priority at Dentistry With a Smile. We provide gentle treatment to minimize discomfort while delivering an advanced level of care.
Do adults need fluoride treatments?
Fluoride treatments can benefit patients of all ages, even adults. The purpose of fluoride is to harden tooth enamel, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
At Dentistry With a Smile we are proud to provide comprehensive dental services for families in Livingston, NJ and the surrounding communities. Through care and compassion we build trusting relationships with our patients that last for generations. Contact us today to learn more and schedule appointments for the whole family.