When it comes to maintaining oral health, experts typically recommend having a dental checkup every six months. In a typical checkup, patients will see both a dental hygienist and a dentist. The dental hygienist cleans and polishes teeth and can answer questions about oral health habits. The dentist reviews the cleaning done by the hygienist, conducts an oral exam of your gums and teeth, diagnoses any oral health problems, orders X-rays if needed, and then makes treatment recommendations.
Dental checkups are vital because they provide an easy, routine way for patients and dental professionals to find and treat oral health problems early. Looking for dental checkups in New York? Contact dntl bar today by calling 1-866-DNTL-BAR or booking an appointment online. With nights and weekends available, you can find something to fit your schedule at any of our Manhattan locations.
Maintaining oral health is mainly done through preventative techniques, which is why regular dental checkups and teeth cleaning are essential. Checkups ensure that dentists can identify any oral health problems early, while teeth cleanings make sure that oral health problems are less likely to develop.
The typical dental checkup includes the following:
Brushing may be the most well-known part of the typical oral health routine. Brush your teeth twice a day, each time for at least two minutes—staying for about 30 seconds in each quadrant of the mouth. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to the surface of the teeth and aim for the gums. For the best results, brush in an up-and-down motion on the front and back surfaces, then back and forth on the flat tops.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends waiting at least an hour after eating before brushing your teeth, especially if your meal includes something acidic—such as orange juice or grapefruit. The acid loosens tooth enamel, and the force of brushing may damage teeth.
Unlike brushing, you only need to floss your teeth once a day, preferably at night before bed. You should floss before brushing your teeth if you’re doing both at the same time since flossing drags out food particles and plaque that hide between teeth. Brushing can be more effective when the brush easily picks up these particles and plaque.
Remember to use enough floss to have a clean section for each tooth. Wind the floss around your index fingers and slip it between each tooth, using an up-and-down motion to drag out particles and plaque.
The last part of any regular dental hygiene routine is rinsing, usually with mouthwash. Pour out a capful of mouthwash and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Most companies that make mouthwash recommend not rinsing with water after this point. This simple act helps clear out the tidbits of toothpaste and food that even brushing and flossing can miss. Plus, it can leave your mouth clean and refreshed.
Good oral health typically translates to good overall health. The importance of oral health maintenance goes beyond having a perfect smile. Particularly for those struggling with cardiovascular conditions or diabetes, oral health and overall health can be closely related.
Even if you think you’re doing well with your oral hygiene routine, you should still schedule dental checkups and teeth cleanings. It’s important to see a trusted dentist twice a year, so a general dentist can do the following:
Your oral health shouldn’t have to take a backseat to the rest of your life. With appointments available on the weekends and at night, you can finally find a visit that fits your schedule. Enjoy Netflix, noise-canceling headphones, and cozy blankets for extra comfort when you stop in.
Find out what it’s like to be at the center of your dental care by making an appointment at dntl bar today. Call (866) 928-3988.
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