In America, 46% of adults over the age of 30 show signs of present gum disease. Around 26% of adults in the country have untreated tooth decay. When dental issues are left untreated, the infection can quickly spread and lead to more serious health issues.
Visiting your dentist on a regular basis can not only prevent oral infections from spreading but can treat these infections and prevent new infections from forming. How will you know when it’s time to visit your general dentist in Colorado Springs, CO for dental checkups?
Continue reading below for a guide on when to see a general dentist and what to expect during your visit!
When Should You See a Dentist?
The first step in maintaining good oral hygiene is knowing when to see your dentist. Each dental patient differs and some patients may need to see the dentist more often than others. However, there are a few general guidelines about going to the dentist you should know about.
Here’s what you need to know.
Dental Checkups Every Six Months
Most patients will need to visit their dentist every 6 months for a routine checkup. If upon visiting with your dentist everything looks great, then you can reschedule your next appointment in 6 months. However, if your dentist finds an issue during your dental cleanings, then you may need to visit your dentist more often to receive proper dental treatment.
Your dentist will inform you of any dental problems spotted during the cleaning and how often you’ll need to come back.
More Frequent Visits for Dental Procedures
If you’re visiting the dentist for a specific dental procedure, then the frequency of your visits will differ. Depending on what type of dental procedure you need/want, you may need to visit your dentist more often than the normal 6-month rule. Always speak with your dentist about the type of dental services you’re considering and what the treatment plans look like.
Signs You Need to See a Dentist
Aside from your regular dental checkups and planned procedures, there are a few other times when you might need to see your dentist. Below are several signs to be on the lookout for.
Dental Pain and Swelling
You shouldn’t be suffering from consistent pain or swelling in your gums or teeth. This is a sure sign that something’s wrong, and you need to see your dentist. Your dentist will check your teeth and gums for signs of infection or gum disease and begin treatment.
Damaged Tooth
If you happen to break, chip, or crack your tooth, then this is considered a dental emergency. Contact your general dentist in Colorado Springs as soon as it happens. Your dentist will fit dental emergencies into their schedule to provide patients with the necessary care.
Bleeding Gums
It’s not uncommon for gums to bleed if you brush or floss too hard or if you eat something sharp that breaks the skin. Your gums shouldn’t bleed on a regular basis, though. Noticing bleeding gums each time you brush or floss could be a sign of gum disease.
An appointment with your dentist will confirm this and start you down the path to recovery.
Lack of Seeing the Dentist
Keep in mind these are just a few signs of when to see a dentist, as this list is not exhaustive. Even if you don’t notice any of these signs it’s time to see a dentist, it’s still important to note that seeing a dentist every 6 months is ideal for good oral hygiene. If you haven’t seen your dentist in the last 6 months, then this is another sign that it’s time to do so.
What to Expect When Visiting the Dentist
If you suffer from dental anxiety, you’re not alone. According to research, between 50 and 80% of adults in America suffer from some type of dental anxiety. A great way to reduce this anxiety is knowing what to expect at your first appointment.
Here are a few things to know.
Required New-Patient Paperwork to Be Filled Out
All first-time patients must fill out new-patient paperwork before their first appointment. This is something to prepare for. Arrive at your appointment 15 minutes early to give yourself enough time to do so without feeling rushed or anxious.
You may also want to speak with the dentist’s office about options for filling out the paperwork online or in advance.
A Consultation With the Dentist
Before your dental cleaning or dental treatment begins, you’ll have time to speak with the dentist. This consultation is the ideal time to ask your dentist any questions you have in mind. If you do suffer from dental anxiety or have any concerns, let your dentist know then.
Your dentist can explain what’ll happen during the appointment, what tools will be used, and ways to reduce stress during the treatment.
Use of Dental Equipment for Teeth Cleaning
Various dental equipment/tools will be used during your visit. The type of equipment used will depend on the reason for your visit. For routine cleaning, plaque will be scraped off your teeth and gum line, your teeth will receive a nice polish, and good flossing might occur as well.
Your dentist can give you all the specifics before the treatment begins if desired.
A Scheduled Follow-Up Appointment
Once the appointment is complete, you’ll then want to stop by the front desk to schedule your next appointment. If everything looked great, then you most likely won’t need to come back for another 6 months. If any dental issues were spotted, then you’ll need to come back as advised by your dentist.
Scheduling regular dental appointments is the best way to ensure proper dental hygiene.
Why Are Dental Checkups Essential for Everyone?
Routine dental checkups are essential for everyone, even those with great dental hygiene! These routine visits can prevent future dental issues, save your teeth from current dental issues, educate you on proper dental hygiene, and so much more.
If you’re due to see a dentist, then contact Advanced Dental & Implant Center. We provide a relaxing environment for all of our patients and offer a variety of dental services.
