General Dentist 101: How to Start Your Journey to Great Oral Health

Have you been putting off going to the dentist? In the United States, Americans visit the dentist on average every three years.

If you have a fear of the dentist, you probably haven't been in a while. This is not recommended because you can't keep track of your oral health.

Take a breath; dental visits don't have to be scary. You can start by booking something simple like teeth cleaning.

So, if it's been a while since you've seen the dentist, this General Dentist 101 guide will tell you what you can expect from your appointment.

Why Is Good Oral Health Important?

Good oral health is crucial for overall well-being and quality of life. It goes beyond just having a bright smile and fresh breath. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Poor oral health can lead to pain and discomfort, such as difficulty eating and speaking. Additionally, a healthy mouth boosts self-confidence, improves social interactions, and enhances one's overall appearance.

What to Expect From Your Appointment

Going to the dentist doesn't have to be scary if you know what to expect. Here's what our General Dentist 101 guide says you should expect from your appointment.

Medical History

You will begin your dental visit by completing paperwork and providing your medical history. This information allows the dental team to understand your health and any potential risk factors fully.

Teeth Cleaning

If you've also booked a teeth cleaning appointment, the oral hygienist will perform this now. At Century Farms Dental, this appointment removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, which helps prevent dental issues. This helps keep your smile looking its best and is recommended.

Dental Exam

Next, you will undergo a dental exam. The dentist will carefully inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth to evaluate their overall health. They will look for signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral issues requiring treatment.

Dental X-Rays

Dental X-rays may be taken for a more detailed view of your teeth and jaws. These images can reveal hidden problems, such as tooth cavities or underlying bone issues. 

This is very important because underlying bone issues can cause severe damage to your teeth and be costly to fix. For this reason, you want to treat it as soon as possible.

The End of the Appointment

After the dental exam, the dentist will provide oral hygiene instructions. This includes guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques and recommendations for oral care products that suit your specific needs, like an enamel repair toothpaste.

General Dentist 101: Passed

Going to the dentist makes many anxious, but you're less likely to have oral health problems if you go regularly. If you last visited the dentist a while ago, your appointment will consist of a teeth cleaning, dental exam, x-rays (if needed), and oral hygiene advice.

Addressing oral health problems as early as possible is essential to prevent them from progressing and causing more severe issues.

Hopefully, this General Dentist 101 guide has helped. If you're ready for an appointment, contact us at Century Farms Dental. We have a special welcome offer for new patients.