How often should I visit my dentist?

The frequency of routine dental visits should be based on individual need – some people will need to see the dentist more often than others.  More frequent visits may be necessary for persons at increased risk for oral diseases due to

• age,
• pregnancy,
• tobacco and alcohol use,
• periodontal (gum) disease,
• general health conditions (e.g., diabetes, dry mouth, HIV infection).

What should my dentist do during oral examination?

We believe in prevention!

• A full set of dental radiographs (x-rays) assist the dentist in locating disease that cannot be seen by the eye, such as cavities that develop between the teeth or bone loss that occurs beneath the gums.
• With the help of this information inspection of every tooth surface for the presence of new decay and the status of existing restorations follows.
• Then, we will check the gums and your general oral hygiene by measuring the band of gum tissue that surrounds the tooth. The purpose of this examination is to detect gum disease at the early stages when prevention is most effective.
• Finally the soft tissues are checked for ulcerations or other lesions. It is best if pathological change is detected at early stages when it can be successfully treated.

It is a common misconception that without any teeth, there is no need to see a dentist. With age, the chance of oral cancer or other lesions forming within the mouth increases. In addition, when a denture’s base is covering major part of your oral cavity, it is actually more important to check for any abnormalities. Dentures will also become loose over time due to the bone deterioration and may need replacing or relining.

When should my child first visit the dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends an oral examination for all infants within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth and no later than 12 months of age. An early examination will provide an opportunity for the parent to receive guidance regarding dental and oral development as well as general oral health care. It will also help ensure that the infant’s mouth is appropriately cleaned, and that the infant has no existing medical conditions or habits that could later lead to oral disease.