What to Expect at Your 6-Month Dental Check-Up

Your dental check-ups are one of many factors that go into maintaining your bright and beautiful smile. Seeing your dentist is a preventative measure that is one of the easiest ways to prevent gum disease, tartar buildup, and other frequently-seen dental issues. Here’s what you should expect from your visit to the dentist every six months.

Depending on your dentist and insurance, x-rays are taken at every 6-month appointment or every other time you see the dentist. X-rays allow the dentist to get a full, clear view of what’s going on with your teeth and overall oral health. One of the main things they are looking for is dental cavities and signs of tooth decay.

According to Healthline, dental x-rays use radiation, but the exposure level is so low that experts have determined the machines are safe for adults and children alike. There are two different types of x-rays. The most common is intraoral, which will allow the dentist to examine your teeth from different angles. Extraoral is needed when the dentist requires a broader look because they suspect problems in areas outside your teeth and gums, like in the jaw or sinus cavities.

After the x-rays, the dentist will look over them and share their findings during your examination.

Scaling and polishing will happen at all of your 6-month dental check-up appointments. This part of the appointment is where your teeth will be cleaned of plaque and tartar. Scaling is when a unique tool is used to pick away at and scrape off tartar buildup. Having this done every six months is one of the most effective ways to prevent gum disease.

Once the dental hygienist has finished scaling, they will polish the teeth using gritty toothpaste and a specialty electric toothbrush. This combination of dental care tools will help to minimize or eliminate surface stains. Your hygienist will likely finish cleaning your teeth by flossing your teeth to ensure the areas between the teeth are clean.

Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, checking for tooth decay and cavities at this point in your appointment. They will also check for gum disease by using a tool to measure the depth of the spaces between your gums and teeth. Shallow spaces indicate healthy gums, whereas deeper spaces are an indication of gum disease. The dentist will check for signs of oral cancer, swelling, redness, correct bite, and anything that might be causing you discomfort.

Are you looking for a dentist in Layton, Utah? Oak Hills Dentistry is the perfect place for you and your family to get a 6-month dental check-up. We specialize in family and cosmetic dentistry, and we take pride in doing dental work with a gentle touch that is sure to make every patient feel comfortable and welcome in our office. So, whether you need a routine check-up or you’re looking for a cosmetic solution for your teeth, you can count on Oak Hills Dentistry to give you the best dental care you can find. Go ahead and contact us today to learn more about our office, the services we provide, and schedule an appointment with one of our exceptional dentists!