{"id":119,"date":"2021-05-18T21:30:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-18T21:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.universitydentalgroup.com\/blog\/?p=119"},"modified":"2021-08-12T13:04:23","modified_gmt":"2021-08-12T13:04:23","slug":"what-to-expect-havent-visited-dentist-dental-checkup","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.universitydentalgroup.com\/blog\/2021\/05\/18\/what-to-expect-havent-visited-dentist-dental-checkup\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Expect If You Haven\u2019t Visited Your Dentist In a While"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Has it been a few months, or perhaps even a year or two, since you last visited your dentist? Maybe you\u2019ve been putting off your next dental checkup because of finances, time constraints, dental anxiety, or the COVID-19 pandemic. Whatever the reason, it\u2019s time to get your oral health back on track and schedule your next appointment! Your dentist won\u2019t 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\u2019s been a while since your last dental checkup<\/a>, read on to discover what you can expect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Checking In<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019ll check in from your car. Then, when they\u2019re ready to invite you in, you\u2019ll have a no-touch temperature check, complete a quick health screening, and use some hand sanitizer. If needed, you\u2019ll fill out some new patient paperwork about your medical history and dental insurance before heading back to your treatment room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meeting Your Dentist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Next, you\u2019ll meet your dentist. They\u2019ll take the time to introduce themselves and get to know you. Don\u2019t be shy! If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to learn more about their background or practice, don\u2019t hesitate to ask! You may be asked to rinse with a specialized mouthwash and then you\u2019ll be introduced to one of their dental hygienists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dental Cleaning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

 In most cases, you\u2019ll 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\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dental Exam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Next, your dentist will take a thorough look at your teeth, gums, and jaws, which includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n