Routine dental exams and checkups are the foundation of good oral health. At Pristine Dental and Orthodontics, we emphasize preventive care to detect and address potential issues before they become major concerns.

What to Expect During Your Dental Exam & Checkup

A routine dental exam typically includes the following steps:

Step 1: Comprehensive Oral Examination

Your dental checkup begins with a thorough evaluation of your oral health. The dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral tissues for signs of cavities, gum disease, infections, or abnormalities. We also assess your bite alignment and check for issues such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw problems.

Step 2: Professional Cleaning

A skilled dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing might miss. This includes scaling, which removes hardened deposits from the tooth surfaces and along the gum line, followed by polishing to smooth your teeth and remove surface stains.

Step 3: Digital X-Rays and Imaging

If necessary, our team will take digital X-rays to obtain a detailed view of your teeth, jawbone, and underlying structures. X-rays help detect hidden issues such as cavities between teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, bone loss, and infections that may not be visible during a visual examination.

Step 4: Personalized Care Plan & Recommendations

After completing the exam and reviewing the results, your dentist will discuss any findings and provide recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Whether you require additional treatments like fillings, fluoride treatments, orthodontic evaluations, or improved oral hygiene practices, we will guide you through the best options to maintain optimal dental health. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and resources needed to achieve a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Signs You May Need a Dental Exam Sooner

While regular exams are recommended every six months, certain symptoms indicate that you should schedule an appointment sooner:

• Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity.
• Bleeding or swollen gums.
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away.
• Loose or shifting teeth.
• Jaw pain or difficulty chewing.

If you experience any of these issues, don’t wait—early intervention can prevent more serious problems down the road!

How Often Should You Get a Dental Checkup?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for routine exams and cleanings. However, some patients may need more frequent visits, especially if they have a history of gum disease, cavities, or other dental concerns.

Why Are Regular Exams & Checkups Important?

Skipping dental checkups can lead to undetected issues, which may result in costly and extensive treatments later. Routine visits help:

• Prevent cavities and gum disease.
• Detect oral health problems early.
• Maintain fresh breath and a bright smile.
• Protect overall health—oral issues can impact heart health, diabetes, and more.