Your Path to Optimal Oral Health Begins With a Dental Checkup
At Hillcrest Dental, we believe in the power of smiles. We're not just about teeth cleaning but about fostering relationships, providing over-the-top excellent customer service, and offering compassionate care that goes above and beyond. Our mission is simple – to ensure each patient leaves our office thrilled and happy with their visit, knowing they've received the best care possible.
Having regular dental checkups is very important in order for us to keep you in tiptop health. There are many problems that we can address when they're very small, making them a lot less costly and time-consuming to treat. This is more efficient than waiting for them to grow, which would make the situation much more invasive and involved.
Can dental checkups prevent oral health issues?
Yes, dental checkups can definitely prevent oral health issues. We utilize the latest technology in terms of getting your X-rays with the least amount of radiation, thanks to our digital X-rays. We use AI software to ensure nothing is missed and to help you see what we see, in addition to your photos.
Having the doctor examine you in person is very important. There are certain issues you might not be aware of, such as infections or cavities that aren't causing sensitivity or pain yet, which need to be addressed before they turn into bigger problems. Regular cleaning is also crucial. So, yes, they can definitely prevent issues.
What is included in a dental checkup at Hillcrest Dental?
In a dental checkup at Hillcrest Dental, you'll be treated by a friendly team upfront who will check you in. A very friendly dental assistant will bring you back. We typically take a few bitewing X-rays every six months. Sometimes we do this once a year. A hygienist will then examine you, measure your gums, and assess your gum health, which we usually measure once a year.
They will then clean your teeth and take pictures. The doctor will come in, review the photos with you, and see if there's anything that needs to be addressed. We examine your gums, teeth, and bite, assessing the occlusion, which is the positioning of your teeth, and check for any damage. We even screen for possible sleep apnea, grinding, or other issues that can affect your overall health.
- Early Problem Detection: Regular dental checkups and teeth cleaning allow us to spot dental issues in their infancy, often before they become painful or expensive to treat.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Professional teeth cleaning removes stubborn plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
- Oral Cancer Screening: Oral cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Routine checkups include thorough oral cancer screenings.
- Promoting Good Habits: Regular visits reinforce good oral hygiene habits and offer an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
- Overall Health Connection: Oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Dental issues can contribute to systemic health problems, making preventive care even more critical.
What does the dentist look for during a dental checkup?
During a dental checkup, our dentist will perform a head and neck exam and an oral cancer screening, which is crucial to have regularly.
We check for unexpected lumps or bumps in your head or neck region and any lesions inside your mouth or on your face. We examine your teeth for attrition, wear and tear, damage, signs of possible acid reflux, and cavities. We ensure your gum health is strong and look at your bite.
We also consider how you feel about your smile. Are you confident with it, or do you want to make changes or enhance its appearance with whitening or cosmetic options? We take a holistic view of everything. We also have a very high-tech and modern CBCT X-ray machine for a 3D view if needed, allowing us to detect any disease or other problems in a 3D manner.
How long does a dental checkup take?
A dental checkup is typically scheduled alongside the cleaning and is a one-hour appointment. We aim to have you in and out within one hour. If treatment is needed and the schedule allows, you can stay longer to get that done. We work hard to incorporate same-day dentistry when possible for both the patient and the doctor. But if it's just the cleaning and exam, it's about an hour.
Do dental checkups hurt?
Dental checkups should not hurt at all. We train our team to be very gentle throughout the entire process. We take some pictures and X-rays and have fabulous, gentle dental hygienists to perform your cleanings, ensuring you have a wonderful and pleasant experience throughout your visit.
Signs You Need to See a Dentist
While preventive care is essential, there are times when you may need to see a dentist between your regular checkups and teeth cleaning. Be vigilant for these signs:
- Tooth Pain: Persistent toothaches can be a sign of dental issues that require immediate attention.
- Bleeding Gums: If your gums bleed when brushing or flossing, it could be a sign of gum disease or other oral health concerns.
- Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures can indicate underlying problems.
- Swelling: Any unusual swelling, lumps, or sores in your mouth should be evaluated promptly.
- Changes in Oral Health: Any significant changes in your oral health, including color, texture, or odor, should not be ignored.
How Often Should You Go for a Dental Checkup?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist at least once every six months for a routine dental checkup and teeth cleaning. However, the frequency of your visits may vary based on your individual oral health needs. Some individuals may require more frequent checkups, while others can maintain their oral health with biannual visits.
How can I schedule a dental checkup?
If you’re searching for quality dental care, we’re here to help. Call (702) 707-6895 or email [email protected] to schedule your visit. Our team is committed to keeping your smile healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Children's dental checkups often include additional steps to monitor the development of their primary and permanent teeth. We also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene habits.
Absolutely! Your dental checkup is an excellent time to discuss any cosmetic concerns or goals you may have. We can explore options to enhance your smile and boost your confidence.
Not necessarily. X-rays are typically taken at regular intervals to monitor changes in your oral health. If you have recent images from another dental office, we may not need to take new ones.
A routine dental checkup usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. However, the duration may vary based on the complexity of your oral health needs.
Dental checkups are typically painless and comfortable. If you have any concerns about teeth cleaning or experience anxiety, please let us know, and we'll ensure your visit is as stress-free as possible.