The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups and Cleans
Visiting the dentist regularly for a check-up and clean is an important step in maintaining good oral health. It’s one of many preventive measures that helps you avoid common dental problems like cavities, gum disease and tooth decay. Even with excellent oral hygiene habits, professional care is recommended for keeping your teeth and gums in good condition. By booking regular dental check-ups and having your teeth professionally cleaned, it will be easier for your dentist to detect potential issues early and reduce the risk of expensive treatments in the future. Here at Robertson Dental Innovations in the Bendigo area, we offer a range of basic services for check-up and cleans. You can book your next dental exams here.
Maintaining regular dentist appointments is important for children, adolescents and adults. Robertson Dental Innovations would be delighted to be the home base of your dental health journey.
What Happens During a Dental Check-Up and Clean?
A check-up and clean usually consists of two main components:
- the basic dental check-up and
- the professional cleaning, also known as a scale and polish. This is where plaque and tartar (calculus) are removed from your teeth and the process is completed with a polish to remove stains.
At Robertson Dental Innovations our dentists will use this appointment to thoroughly track any changes in the appearance of your teeth and gums and will note down any potential issues to monitor.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
The first part of a check-up and clean is the routine dental check-up, where your dentist will conduct a comprehensive examination of your mouth. This involves inspecting your teeth for cavities, checking the health of your gums, and looking for signs of any oral health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer. X-rays may also be taken to get a deeper look at the structure of your teeth and jawbone, identifying any hidden problems such as impacted teeth or deep decay.
During the exam, your dentist will also assess the alignment of your bite and look for any signs of misalignment, which can cause issues with chewing, speech, and long-term dental health.
Professional Cleaning (Scaling and Polishing)
The second part of the appointment is the professional cleaning, which involves scaling and polishing. Plaque removal is essential because even regular brushing and flossing may not remove all the plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth over time. Scaling involves using specialised tools to remove this hardened plaque (also known as tartar) from the teeth, especially along the gumline.
Once the scaling process is done, a polish will smooth out the surface of the teeth. This step not only makes your teeth feel cleaner but also helps prevent future plaque buildup because bacteria and food particles find it harder to stick to smooth surfaces.
Fluoride Treatment and Advice
After your scaling and polishing, your dentist may offer a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay and cavities. Fluoride treatments are especially beneficial for children, but adults who suffer from cavities can benefit from it as well. At the end of your check-up and clean at Robertson Dental Innovations, your dentist will provide you with advice on maintaining your dental hygiene at home, such as proper brushing techniques, the best type of toothbrush, and how to use dental floss effectively.
Why Regular Check-Ups and Cleans Are Recommended
Preventing Cavities and Gum Disease
One of the most important reasons to get regular check-ups and cleans is to prevent cavities and gum disease. Plaque contains bacteria that can erode your tooth enamel and infect your gums. If it is not removed through professional teeth cleaning, it can lead to cavities, gingivitis, or even periodontitis (advanced gum disease). Catch these issues early in a routine dental check-up with one of our dentists at Robertson Dental Innovations in the Bendigo area.
Early Detection of Other Health Issues
Our dentists can often detect signs of other health conditions during a routine dental check-up. For example certain oral symptoms can be linked to broader health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, or even certain types of cancers. Regular dental visits are helpful for early detection, making it easier to manage or treat these conditions before they progress.
How Often Should You Get a Check-Up and Clean?
Recommended Frequency
We recommend a check-up and clean every six months. This allows for the removal of plaque and tartar before they can build up and cause serious damage. It also gives your dentist the chance to monitor your oral health regularly and catch any problems early.
Tailoring Frequency Based on Individual Needs
While every six months is the general recommendation at Robertson Dental Innovations, some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their individual needs. For example, patients with a history of gum disease, people with braces, or patients prone to cavities may require more frequent check-ups and cleans. Your dentist will recommend a personalised schedule based on your oral health to make sure your teeth and gums stay in the best possible condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a dental check-up and clean?
What happens during a professional teeth cleaning?
Can I skip a check-up if I don’t have any pain?
Maintain Your Smile with Regular Check-Ups
Don’t wait for small dental problems to become big dental problems. Get in early and take advantage of preventative treatment with Robertson Dental Innovations. Schedule a check-up and clean with us today. We look forward to being the home base of your dental journey.