If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, you may be wondering what a dental visit is like. You also may be looking for specialized services, which can be a little different than a regular trip to the dentist. Here is what to consider when visiting the dentist for the first time in a while:

The Reason for the Visit

The reason for your visit to the dentist will greatly affect what goes on during the visit. If you are just going for a regular cleaning and checkup, for instance, the process may be simple and straightforward. If you need to have an implant installed or would like braces placed, though, you may have different expectations.

Still, all visits to the dentist start with scheduling an appointment. From there, your dentist will walk you through what specifically will happen during your visit.

General Dentistry

If you are visiting a dentist for a general dentistry service like a cleaning and checkup, you can expect to have your dentist thoroughly inspect your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, and even jawbone. If they feel the need, they will also take X-rays to ensure they catch anything that isn’t detectable with a visual exam. Your dentist will also clean your teeth, removing any plaque, tartar, and debris. If they notice that there is any additional services needed—like a dental filling or a deep cleaning—they will discuss those services with you. From there, you can set a follow-up appointment.

Remember to visit your dentist every six months for a regular cleaning and checkup.

Specialized Services

If your dentist notices something wrong during their inspection, they may either recommend that they provide the necessary services themselves or suggest that you visit a specialist. There may also be certain services that your general dentist cannot provide. These may include:

• Orthodontics

• Cosmetic Dentistry

• Pediatric Services

An appointment with an orthodontist or cosmetic dentist will initially consist of an inspection and consultation. Certain services may be provided the same day, while others require planning and multiple visits.

The services that a dentist provides depend on the field of dentistry in which they are in, and the needs of their particular patients. While some dentists are able to provide services in multiple fields, others specialize in just one field.

For general services like cleanings, checkups, dental fillings, and even root canals, a general dentist is the perfect choice. While many dentists can provide general dental services, not all dentists practice these services regularly. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure to find a primary dentist who is able to provide cleanings and checkups for you every six months.

Cosmetic dentistry is the field of dentistry that focuses on different cosmetic procedures that help to improve the appearance of a patient’s teeth and gums. Some of these services are provided purely for aesthetic reasons, while other services are necessary to improve a patient’s oral health.

Learn about a few of the different fields of dentistry that your dentist may provide services in.

Regular cleanings and checkups are a fundamental aspect of oral healthcare. It’s extremely important to visit your dentist every six months for a general cleaning and checkup. When you visit your dentist for a cleaning, they will remove any plaque, tartar, and debris. They will also check your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, and even jawbone for a variety of different ailments, including:

• Gum Disease
• Tooth Decay
• Jaw Bone Loss
• Cancer
• Root Pulp Infection
• Cavities
• Other Oral Health Problems

Make sure you visit your dentist every six months. Do not miss a visit!

Learn more here.

To find the perfect dentist to meet your needs, there are a few tips you’ll want to consider. These include:

• Searching online for top-rated dentists
• Asking your family and friends for references
• Asking your general dentist for referrals for specialized services

Or you can skip these steps and reach out to the dental office of Drs. Leal, Spangler and Johnson for outstanding dental care. We provide a variety of different care options to meet your specific needs.