Why Do We See the Dentist Twice A Year?

Regular dentist visit in Plano TX

It makes sense to go to the dentist when you’re having a problem, such as tooth pain or a broken tooth, but even with great oral hygiene, it’s important to make regular appointments with your dentist for a check-up. Most dentists recommend dental check-ups and cleanings every six months, and there are several reasons why this six-month time frame is important. Making sure you have regular check-ups with Plano, TX dentist Dr. Jacob Grapevine will keep your smile and body healthy for years to come.

What To Expect At A Dental Visit

Regular dental visits have two parts: a hygienist will clean teeth and the dentist will perform a thorough examination. Usually the cleaning and X-rays are performed first, and then the dentist will examine your teeth, mouth, tongue, and throat.

The visit gives the dentist the opportunity to check for cavities, tooth decay, ensure teeth are rooted properly, and to identify and prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Even your regular brushing and flossing routine needs to be supplemented by a professional cleaning and exam.

Why Are Professional Teeth Cleanings Necessary?

Brushing and flossing at home are the most important parts of your oral health, so why is it important to get professional cleanings?

Over time, even with excellent oral hygiene, plaque and tartar build up on teeth and require special tools to be removed. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that builds up as oral bacteria break down sugars from leftover food particles in our mouths. Even though brushing and flossing remove a lot of plaque, it’s still difficult to get it all, and over time it builds up to form a hard layer on the teeth called tartar. Tartar cannot be removed with floss or a toothbrush, and is the first stage of tooth decay.

During a cleaning, your hygienist uses special tools to remove tartar and can offer you insight on areas where you might need to take extra care such as behind the teeth or in between the molars. They will also use a professional-grade toothpaste to brush your teeth and floss to make sure there is no plaque buildup.

Prevent Tooth Decay With Regular Dental Checkups

Tooth decay affects everyone and if left untreated, can lead to serious health problems such as tooth loss, abscesses, and other systemic health problems. Your dentist will spot any problems before they become major, saving you money and discomfort by treating them early. Small cavities are much easier to treat than abscesses.

Schedule an Appointment with Plano, TX Dentist Dr. Grapevine

Scheduling and keeping checkups with your dentist is essential to maintaining good oral health and will help you avoid potentially uncomfortable and expensive procedures. If you need a checkup, call (972) 268-6480 or schedule your appointment online.