First, you need to find a dental office in Orem and make sure that you feel completely comfortable there. Once you know that you’re comfortable and that you can trust your dentist, you’ll then need to schedule a check-up appointment. That’s to make sure that any major problems don’t arise. During your first check-up with the dentist, you can expect them to ask you about your health history. If anything that has to do with your health has changed recently, then you need to make sure that you tell that to the dentist. Most of the time you’ll only have to visit the dentist for a check-up and that’s only every six months, the checkups can help your teeth stay clean, look beautiful and prevent any major dental issues.

Here’s what you can expect to happen during a checkup appointment.

Cleaning

Dental checkups always include a complete thorough cleaning of the teeth, either from a dental hygienist or sometimes a dentist. Whoever cleans your teeth will use special tools, the hygienist will also scrape around your gum line to remove any built-up tartar and plaque. The removal of the tartar and plaque is very important because that’s what causes you to develop cavities, bad breath, and other unhealthy issues.  The hygienist might also floss as well as polish your teeth.

A Full Exam

After the cleaning is all done the dentist will then come in and do a complete exam of your teeth, mouth, and gums, looking for any major issues and any signs of a disease. A dentist’s main goal is to help you maintain good oral health, and avoid any major problems. This is why they do a full exam.

X-Ray

Depending on your age and the condition of your oral health, the dentist might suggest that they do an x-ray of your mouth. X-rays can help diagnose any issues that the dentist might not see, such as impacted teeth, decay between the teeth, and impacted teeth. Nowadays dental offices use x-ray machines that have zero radiation and they are now safer than they have ever been. Just as safe as watching tv. As a precaution, the dentist will give you a lead apron to put on before the x-ray is performed. If you’re pregnant then you will need to let the dentist know that, as x-rays should really not be performed on a pregnant woman. The x-ray can provide a complete view of your teeth and that’s including the top and the bottom just in one single picture. X-rays can help the dentist understand your bite as well as the relationship between your teeth. X Rays can also help determine if you need your wisdom teeth pulled out.

How Long Should You Wait Between Visits?

If you know that your teeth and gums are in good health, then you could wait 6 months until scheduling your next visit. If you do need further dental treatment, like to fill a cavity or repair a broken tooth-then you should make your next appointment as soon as you’re ready to check out from your check-up. And don’t forget to ask your dentist in Orem any questions that you need the answer to.