Many people mistakenly believe it isn’t necessary to go to the dentist often as long as they’re practicing good oral hygiene at home. The truth is, dental exams are about much more than simply having your teeth cleaned. They’re also essential for diagnosing and treating problems early, as well as preventing issues from arising. Here’s an overview of some of the benefits dental checkups provide and how they’re typically performed.

Why Regular Dentist Visits Are Important

Generally, it’s recommended that children and adults have a dental exam every six months to maintain good oral hygiene. Even the most careful brushers can’t remove all the plaque and tartar that builds up on teeth over time.

A dentist has tools specially designed to eliminate plaque and tartar and clean hard-to-reach places. In turn, this provides a better defense to cavities and tooth decay and will leave you with a confident smile. Regular checkups can also help prevent gum disease and detect signs of oral cancer or other systematic health issues in enough time to be successfully treated.

What to Expect During a Routine Checkup

While every dentist's office is different, there is a general procedure you can expect to be followed during your checkup. The visit usually starts with a few questions about your medical and dental history. Then, they’ll take X-rays of your teeth to determine if there are any abnormalities that aren’t visible to the naked eye.

Next is the cleaning, which involves removing plaque and tartar, polishing each tooth, and flossing. Finally, the dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening, looking over the mouth tissue and jaw area thoroughly. Once the exam is over, they’ll discuss any concerns they might have and offer direction on oral care at home.

If it’s time for you to make a dentist appointment, contact Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY. Dr. Taylor Tohill and his staff are committed to providing patients of all ages a welcoming, clean, and comfortable environment where they can get all their dental care needs met. He has hygienists to perform high-quality cleanings, and he does various preventive, reconstructive, and cosmetic procedures. Call (606) 679-4450 to schedule your next checkup, or visit the website to view all the services offered.