How long has it been since you last saw your dentist for your biannual exam and cleaning? If it was more than six months ago, you may be wondering what will happen at your next visit. Thankfully, your check-up is nothing to worry about, but if you’re curious about what to expect, here’s a quick breakdown of the appointment, and why it’s never too late to come back!
Bleeding Gums
If you’re not a regular flosser or haven’t been to the dentist in a while, your gums may bleed when the hygienist flosses them. If this happens, don’t panic. While bleeding gums could be an indication of gum disease, if your dentist finds any signs of this, they can customize a treatment plan for you while you’re there.
Extended Cleaning
Another change that may be different from your last cleaning is that you may need an extended cleaning to remove any built-up tartar or plaque. This may take longer than usual depending on how long it’s been since your last one.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening on you, checking for any abnormalities that could indicate a problem. If there are any concerning areas, they can help with the next steps, including ordering any biopsies or referring you to a specialist.
Dental X-rays
If you haven’t had X-rays this year, you will likely need to have them updated. If you have older X-rays on file, those can be compared to the new ones, or if you don’t, new ones can establish a deeper look at your mouth so you’ll have a baseline going forward.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
Once your teeth are clean, they’ll be ready for your dentist to examine in person. At this time, you can ask questions, raise concerns, and if your dentist spots any issues, you will be given a treatment plan with next steps for care. Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment and/or your next 6 month visit on your way out, so you don’t need to worry about missing another vital check-up again!
Remember, life can get busy and important appointments like your dental checkup and cleaning can sometimes be delayed, but waiting for preventive care can often lead to overlooked problems that could get worse with time. Thankfully, it’s never too late to get back on track and protect your smile, so book your biannual exam and cleaning today!
About Dr. Altenbach
Dr. Sean M. Altenbach is proud to provide his patients with gentle, comprehensive dental care. Whether you’re in need of your biannual exam and cleaning, restoration work, or you’d like to explore your cosmetic dentistry options, Dr. Altenbach is here to help. A skilled and compassionate dentist, Dr. Altenbach has been named a “topDentist” in Jacksonville Magazine multiple times by his peers.
It’s never too late to get back on track with your oral health. Book your appointment with Altenbach Dentistry today by visiting our website or calling us at 904-448-0441 and take control of your smile!