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Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining your oral health and catching potential issues before they become serious. At Hardin Family Dental, we go beyond just cleaning your teeth; our comprehensive dental checkups include a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to ensure you’re protected against cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
What Happens During a Dental Checkup?
When you visit Hardin Family Dental for a dental checkup, our team will perform a deep cleaning to remove hardened plaque along your teeth and gum line. After your cleaning, our dentist will carefully examine your teeth for any signs of cavities, loose or damaged teeth, and worn fillings. We also assess your risk for specific dental diseases, taking into account factors like family history and lifestyle habits.
We’ll check your gums for signs of swelling, redness, or bleeding and measure the depth of your gingival pockets, which can indicate early stages of gum disease. Additionally, our team evaluates your bite alignment, checks for teeth grinding (bruxism), and examines the joints of your lower jaw for any issues.
A complete dental checkup also includes a thorough examination of the soft tissues in your head, mouth, neck, and lymph nodes to detect any signs of infection or oral cancer. If we spot any concerns, we may recommend additional diagnostics or treatments to address these issues before they progress.
How Often Should I Get a Dental Checkup?
For most people, visiting the dentist every six months is recommended to maintain optimal oral health. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent visits based on specific health factors. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system can increase your risk for oral health issues, including gum disease. Regular tobacco use or heavy drinking also raises the likelihood of developing dental problems, making more frequent checkups beneficial.
Additionally, certain medications can impact your oral health, especially those that cause dry mouth, as they reduce saliva production, which helps protect your teeth from cavities. During your checkup, let our dentist know about any medications or supplements you’re taking, as well as any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as tooth sensitivity or discomfort.
Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Important
Routine dental checkups at Hardin Family Dental allow us to detect problems early on, when treatments are minimally invasive and more affordable. With diagnostic tools like x-rays, we can spot issues like tooth decay in its earliest stages, long before you may notice any discomfort. Early intervention can save you time, money, and prevent unnecessary pain in the future.
Oral Health and Overall Health
Your oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Conditions like gum disease can contribute to broader health issues, including heart disease and diabetes complications. By maintaining regular checkups, you’re not only protecting your smile but also supporting your overall wellness.
If you’re due for a dental cleaning and examination, contact Hardin Family Dental to schedule your next appointment. Our goal is to provide you with the highest level of care, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.
