Has it been a few months, or perhaps even a year or two, since you last visited your dentist? Maybe you’ve been putting off your next dental checkup because of finances, time constraints, dental anxiety, or the COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the reason, it’s time to get your oral health back on track and schedule your next appointment! Your dentist won’t be interested in judging you or making you feel guilty. They just want to help you achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve! If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, read on to discover what you can expect.
Checking In
A few new precautions have been put in place to protect patients and staff from the COVID-19 pandemic. When you arrive for your appointment, you’ll check in from your car. Then, when they’re ready to invite you in, you’ll have a no-touch temperature check, complete a quick health screening, and use some hand sanitizer. If needed, you’ll fill out some new patient paperwork about your medical history and dental insurance before heading back to your treatment room.
Meeting Your Dentist
Next, you’ll meet your dentist. They’ll take the time to introduce themselves and get to know you. Don’t be shy! If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to learn more about their background or practice, don’t hesitate to ask! You may be asked to rinse with a specialized mouthwash and then you’ll be introduced to one of their dental hygienists.
The Dental Cleaning
In most cases, you’ll have your teeth cleaned before your dentist examines them. Your hygienist will carefully scrape away any plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, especially in those hard-to-clean places like behind your back molars. Once all the buildup has been removed, they’ll use a slightly gritty substance to polish away surface stains and leave your pearly whites gleaming. The entire cleaning process should be completely comfortable, but feel free to voice any concerns you may have before hand (like sensitive teeth) so they can make the necessary adjustments to keep you comfortable.
The Dental Exam
Next, your dentist will take a thorough look at your teeth, gums, and jaws, which includes:
- Visual inspection, where your dentist will check the health and appearance of your teeth, as well as the integrity of any dental crowns or fillings you have.
- Oral cancer screening is typically completed as part of the visual inspection. Your dentist will look for abnormalities that could indicate cancer or symptoms of other systemic diseases like diabetes or osteoporosis.
- Dental X-rays to check for any problems that may be hidden between the teeth or under the gumline.
- Gum health check, which involves measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums with specialized tools, to look for any early warning signs of gum disease.
Wrapping Up Your Appointment
Lastly, your dentist will go over their findings with you and let you know how your oral health is doing. If you have any problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or a damaged tooth, they’ll fully explain all your treatment options and the ones they recommend for you. They can also go over all the best ways for you to practice better dental care at home, and they’ll be happy to answer any more questions you may have. Then, the friendly staff at the front desk will help you schedule your next appointment.
You don’t have to feel embarrassed about how long it’s been since your last appointment. Your dentist is far more concerned with what’s most important: your oral health and overall wellbeing. No matter how long it’s been since your last visit, they can help you achieve the happy, healthy smile you deserve!
About the Practice
University Dental Group has been caring for smiles of all ages in Worcester and the surrounding communities since 1980! We are proud to offer the latest dental treatments for fast, effective, and comfortable results. Paired with our family-friendly practice and friendly team of experienced dentists, we go above and beyond to make you feel right at home when you come to visit us. To schedule your next appointment, we can be reached online or at (508) 960-6495.