From an early age, we know we should visit our dentist’s office on a regular basis to get our teeth cleaned and checked for any dental problems. As we get older, life may get busier, and we might be tempted to skip these routine appointments. But these regular visits to your dentist ensure that your smile looks beautiful and feels healthy.
Avoiding your dentist unless you have a dental emergency can lead to severe structural damage that may be irreversible. Dr. Paul Larsen, a dentist located in Bountiful, UT, provides further information regarding the preventative dental care that you can receive during routine dental cleanings and examinations.
Learn More About Preventative Dentistry
What Happens During a Routine Dentist Appointment?
When you visit your dentist for a routine appointment, your dental professional will perform a thorough teeth cleaning and an oral health evaluation. They will clear away plaque and other residues from difficult-to-reach spots in your mouth, including near the gumline.
If plaque and tartar remain on your teeth, they can create major dental problems like decay and gum disease. This cleaning ensures that you maintain a healthy dental structure before you require extensive dental work.
The dentist will also check your teeth and gums for signs of dental concerns. Early diagnosis of any issues allows time for treatment before they can evolve into dental emergencies.
How Often Should I Schedule These Cleanings and Exams?
Dental professionals recommend that the average patient should schedule routine cleanings and exams every six months. This window ensures that preventative dental care can be effective against tooth decay and other dental issues that may arise.
However, some patients may need to see their dentist more frequently. Senior patients, those more prone to forming tartar, and people with underlying medical conditions might need to schedule these appointments three or four times a year.
What Should I Do If I Have a Dental Emergency?
Though you may be diligent about oral hygiene and preventative dentistry, accidents may occur that lead to dental problems developing in between your routine dental visits. If you suffer from a dental emergency, you should not hesitate to reach out to your dental professional.
They can offer advice and schedule you for an emergency appointment in their office if needed. Tooth pain of any kind is abnormal, so if you experience any issues, even if they seem tolerable, you can give your dentist a call. You do not have to suffer from uncomfortable dental symptoms.
Call to Make a Dentist Appointment in Bountiful, UT
Larsen Family Dentistry provides optimal preventative and emergency dental care for patients of all ages. Dr. Larsen is an expert dentist practicing in Bountiful, UT who specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, including periodontal care. We also provide expert laser dental treatment options. To schedule an appointment with our practice, contact our office by phone at 801.228.0155 or reach our staff online.