When you have not gone to the dentist in a while, it is completely normal that you will be anxious about what might happen. The positive side of this: most dental appointments are relatively short, uncomplicated, and centred around prevention.
Just a brief reminder: Step 1 is your health and well-being
When you arrive, your dentist (or dental nurse) will want to know if there are any new medical developments in your oral health, such as:
Bleeding gums
Medical conditions and medications
Smoking/vaping and diet habits.
This allows them to identify risk factors and provide personalised advice.
Step 2: Test teeth and gums
Next, the Dentist Bournemouth does a mouth exam and checks for:
Existing tooth decay, fractures or cracks in teeth, old fillings, and signs of infection
Gum inflammation and periodontal disease
Look for clenching/grinding in the bite and jaw
They might carefully check the gumline using a small mirror and probe.
Step 3: Oral cancer screening
This examination usually involves your tongue, cheeks, throat, and lymph nodes regarding soft tissues. For a Dentist Bournemouth, contact Gentle Dentistry.
Step 4: X-rays (if required)
Not every time you are seen, but occasional X-rays might be required. They are for when the dentist needs to check between teeth, under fillings, or track ongoing issues.
Step 5: Plan the next steps
You will receive a concise overview immediately as to what is healthy, which needs treatment, and whether it should be treated.
The takeaway
A check-up is all about preventing tiny issues from turning into large ones. If you are apprehensive, say so: the team can take it slower and talk through everything to help put your mind at ease.
