With the stress and chaos of the ongoing global pandemic, many individuals have been skipping their regular dental appointments. Some patients tend to only see their dentists in the event of an emergency.
To maintain the structure and appearance of your smile, you should schedule preventative dental visits on a regular basis. Dr. Joseph Thompson, a dentist practicing in Greeley, CO, provides details about routine dentist appointments and how often you should plan to visit your dental professional.
What Happens During a Routine Dental Appointment?
When you visit your dentist for a routine appointment, your dentist will perform a thorough teeth cleaning and give you an oral health evaluation. Though we practice oral hygiene at home, there are spots in our mouths that are difficult to reach with traditional teeth brushing.
A dentist can remove plaque build-up from these tricky places to prevent enamel erosion and other severe dental problems. Your dentist will also examine your teeth and gums during these appointments, checking for dental concerns that may require treatment. Your dentist can stop these issues before they become serious or irreversible.
How Often Should I Schedule Teeth Cleanings?
Dentists recommend attending routine cleanings and exams at your dentist’s office every six months. This length of time provides an ideal window for catching, diagnosing, and treating early signs of dental problems in average patients.
Some individuals may require more frequent dental cleanings. Senior patients, those with a higher propensity for tartar formation, and people with underlying medical conditions might need to see their dentist three or four times a year.
When Should I Call for an Emergency Dentist Appointment?
Acute or chronic dental problems may develop in between these routine dentist appointments and may require prompt attention from a dental professional. You should not hesitate to contact your dentist with any oral health concerns, including tooth sensitivity.
Though these symptoms may seem tolerable, they could point to a larger dental condition that requires intervention from your dentist as soon as possible. Dental emergencies, such as a fractured tooth, should be evaluated quickly by your dentist too.
Schedule Your Dentist Visit Today in Greeley, CO
Thompson Advanced Dentistry offers dental cleanings and more preventative dentistry for patients of all ages. Dr. Thompson is a highly qualified dentist located in Greeley, CO who also specializes in cosmetic, restorative, and general dentistry. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact our staff online or reach us by phone at 970.205.9614.