Understanding Dental Cleanings and Why They Are So Important
What is included in a dental examination?
A dental exam doesn't always include a cleaning, especially if you're a new patient or someone who hasn't had a cleaning in a long time. Typically, we use our dental examination appointment slots for bringing a patient in, doing updated X-rays as needed, taking your gum measurements so we're able to diagnose your gum health and see what type of cleaning you need exactly.
From there, it allows me, the doctor, to come in and take a look at everything, evaluate your teeth, your jaw, your gums, and everything that's going on. We make sure to do an oral cancer screening to ensure there's nothing going on under the radar. It also allows us an opportunity to meet if you're a new patient, get to know each other, talk about what I see, discuss your goals, and what you would like to have done, your fears, hopes, and dreams. We really just create a baseline for us as your dental care team to be able to take care of you and serve you in the ways you are wanting, expecting, and needing at this point in your oral health journey.
Can I get a cleaning during my dental exam?
Sometimes we're able to get the cleaning done in that appointment if things are pretty straightforward or you don't have any major concerns. However, if it's been a while or we have some gum disease diagnosis to discuss, we usually recommend bringing you back for a cleaning at another visit. This way, we can dedicate all the time needed to get the game plan together and make you feel comfortable about moving forward with your treatment.
Is a dental exam painful?
A dental exam should not be painful. It's pretty much the most superficial non-invasive procedure you can have done at a dental office. Sometimes with the gum measurements, we use a really teeny tiny skinny gum ruler that slides along the fronts and back sides of all your teeth in this loose part of your gums that sits right where your gum line is.
For some patients, this can be a little uncomfortable depending on if you have any history of gum disease or gingivitis or if it's been a while since you've had a cleaning. That's usually the most potentially uncomfortable part of the dental exam. Generally, it's just looking, observing, and taking X-rays. In some patients, that can be a little uncomfortable depending on how small your mouth is.
We do our best to make it as smooth and comfortable of a process as we can and allow it to be an enjoyable experience. That way, you have a good reason to come back and see us, build this relationship for the long term, and get your mouth healthy again.
Will I have dental work done on my first visit?
It's not typical for us to do any dental work on your first visit, especially if you don't have anything emergent, time-sensitive, or if you're not in a lot of pain. That first visit is more likely to get to know each other, establish a game plan, and get you on the schedule to come back for dental work.
If you're fearful about getting any numbing injections or having any procedures done when you show up, we can definitely ensure those fears are put to rest. We really want to get to know you, get a game plan together, find out what your comfort level is, and what you need. Then we'll go from there to create a game plan and make you comfortable to come back and get some work done.
How can I prepare for my dental exam?
The only thing you need to do to be prepared for your dental exam is, if you're a new patient, it's helpful to have all your paperwork done in advance. Make sure you give us all your insurance information. Sometimes it can take a long time to get all the policy information in the computer so we can give you an accurate informational update of what your policy covers and any co-pays. That's always good to know.
Really, just show up and give us all the information you can. If you'd like to do some research beforehand about missing teeth and options for replacement, that can be helpful. But really, just come and be yourself. Show up on time, and that's all we can ask. Then we'll do the rest here once you come for your appointment.
Want to learn more? Call Smiles of Kiln Creek at (757) 996-4655 or email [email protected]. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help schedule your visit.