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A couple of weeks back, a patient shared her relief that routine dental visits to our office helped catch a small cavity before it became a painful problem. That single visit saved her time, money, and suffering. Stories like hers are a reminder of the significance of regular dental check-ups. At Avery Family Dentistry, each visit is not just a cursory look at your teeth. We make the best of these visits to protect your smile, encourage your health, and give you peace of mind.
If you’ve ever wondered what really happens at a routine checkup, here’s a little more information on the five things we check every time you sit in the chair.
1. Detailed Oral Health Examination
When you arrive, the dentist makes a full evaluation of your teeth, gums, and mouth tissues. This accomplishes several things for us:
It shows us such things as:
- Early tooth decay
- Gum inflammation
- Signs of oral infection
- Teeth grinding wear
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), catching these issues early can reduce the risk of requiring more complex treatments in the future. By examining every nook and cranny of your mouth, our dentist in Waukegan ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
2. Gum Disease Screening
Gum health is vital for keeping your natural teeth strong. Your dentist examines for signs of gingivitis or periodontitis, including redness, swelling, or bleeding, at each checkup. Studies show that nearly 46% of American adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. Early detection prevents bone loss and improves overall oral health.
The best dentist in Waukegan will explain any changes to your gum health and guide you through the right steps of care, whether increased in-home oral care or procedures in our office.
3. Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer often occurs without notice. That is why your appointment includes a comprehensive screening of your tongue, cheeks, palate, and throat. The concept is simple: find anything unusual early, when treatments will be most effective.
The Oral Cancer Foundation says that over 54,000 Americans are diagnosed each year. Quick, easy screenings during routine check-ups are a good way to protect your long-term health.
4. Dental X-rays
X-rays aren’t needed with every visit, but they detect problems you can’t see in a mirror. The images reveal cavities between teeth, bone density, and impacted teeth before they even cause any harm.
Modern digital X-rays use far less radiation than traditional methods, making them a safe, reliable tool for maintaining your dental health.
5. Professional Cleaning and Personalized Advice
Finally, your appointment concludes with a comprehensive cleaning. Plaque and tartar deposits are stripped from hard-to-reach places, leaving your teeth smooth and shiny. Your hygienist might even provide helpful tips on brushing, flossing, and diet selections based on what they observe during your cleaning.
Patients often report that these little adjustments make a big difference between appointments and keep future visits easier and quicker.
Why Should You Schedule Routine Dental Checkups?
Skipping dental visits can let small issues grow into major problems. Preventive care keeps your smile healthy, lowers the risk of dental emergencies, and saves you money in the long run. At Avery Family Dentistry, we believe prevention always wins over delayed treatment.
If it has been some time since your last checkup, it is time to schedule an appointment. Our Waukegan dentist and friendly dental staff go the extra mile to keep your mouth on track with care you can count on.
