The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Knowing what is coming and what to expect is one of the best ways to ensure your dental visit is stress-free and productive. Remember that a dental checkup is also your opportunity to learn about new treatments and ask about how to take care of your teeth at home.

With this in mind, read on to learn what you can expect from your dental checkup and how to prepare so you can maximise the experience.

What is involved in a dental checkup?

A dental checkup is an opportunity for your dentist to assess the health of your teeth and recommend changes that will improve your oral health. They will first perform a visual check of your teeth, gums and the soft tissue in your mouth. They might press against your gums with an instrument to check for signs of gum disease.

If there are signs of tooth decay, they might take X-ray images of your teeth and jaw to assess the extent of the damage. Once they have a complete picture of your oral health, they can offer recommendations for treatments you might require.

Common interventions after a routine dental check up include fillings, root canal therapy, extractions, bridges, veneers, crowns and orthodontics. You could also be referred to another dental professional such as a dental hygienist for a professional cleaning.

While some of these treatments will be essential to help stop further damage, others will be aesthetic or restorative treatments that are intended to improve the appearance and function of your smile and bite.

How can I prepare for a checkup?

The best way to prepare for a checkup is to make sure you brush and floss your teeth ahead of your appointment. This can help you to feel more confident and at ease. You should also arrive at your appointment with plenty of time to spare so you can relax. If you feel rushed, this can make your appointment feel more stressful.

Another excellent way to prepare would be to write down any questions you might have for your dentist. This could be related to issues you might be having with your teeth, or questions about how to care for your teeth at home. Or you might have questions about treatments you have heard about and would like to know more about.

What if I am nervous about my checkup?

If you’re nervous about your trip to the dentist, we’d like to help to put you at ease. It doesn’t matter how long it has been since your last checkup, what is important is that you’re now actively seeking treatment and support.

We offer a judgement-free environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We will explain everything to you so you can make an informed choice about your care.

If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, we recommend letting our reception team know when you book your appointment. We can then discuss ways that we can make the experience less stressful for you.

For example, you could wear headphones and listen to calming music throughout your checkup to stay distracted. If you prefer to know what is going on, we can go slowly and explain everything as we move through the checkup. The first step to overcoming your fear is to book an appointment with our team.