When was the last time you saw your Newhall, CA, dentist for a preventive visit? Checkups and cleanings benefit people of all ages, from babies and toddlers to teens and adults. But what makes these routine visits so essential for the health and function of our smiles? How often should we visit our dentist for treatment?
When Should Kids See the Dentist?
For children, the first visit to the dentist should happen around age one, once the first baby tooth erupts. The initial exam is about looking at the smile to make sure the teeth are arriving as expected. Afterward, visits every six months are recommended for routine checkups and cleanings. In addition to the oral health benefits we will discuss further, these visits can help instill good oral hygiene habits and reduce dental anxiety. People who see the dentist regularly as children are more likely to continue doing so as adults!
Dental Checkups
The checkup for both kids and adults should happen at least twice a year. Using advanced technology, we will take detailed digital images of the smile, including the teeth, gums, roots, and oral structures. From there, we can assess the state of the patient’s oral health and identify possibly areas of concern. For kids, we look for the presence of tooth decay, gingivitis, or misalignment. For adults we also look for cavities and gingivitis, as well as gum disease, dental infection, TMJ disorder, bruxism (teeth grinding), and oral cancer. The earlier we identify a problem, the sooner we can administer treatment, often protecting smiles from serious discomfort or tooth loss.
Having Your Teeth Cleaned
A cleaning is also crucial and is offered in the same visit. The procedure involves the dentist or hygienist using a manual tool and an ultrasonic scaler to remove all plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. The process takes only a few minutes, but is crucial for limiting the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and also combating bad breath and discoloration. If you have high risk factors for gum disease, then we may suggest a preventive visit every three to four months. If you would like to schedule your next checkup and cleaning now, before the holiday season starts, please contact our team today. We would love to help you enjoy optimal oral health as you leave 2019 and start a new year!
Do You Have Questions About Preventive Care?
We would like to help you enjoy general and preventive treatments that improve overall oral health. With routine visits, we can work with you to ensure your family enjoys beautiful and healthy smiles! To learn more about our exams and dental cleanings, then please schedule a consultation by calling Newhall Dental Arts in Newhall, CA, today at (661) 259-7760.