6 Month Check Ups – Early Detection and Best Prevention
The Canadian Dental Association advises a checkup and cleaning every 6 months. At Chinook Mall Dental Family Clinic we want your check ups to become routine so we can keep your oral health in top condition and prevent any complications that could arise.
The purpose of a dental examination is to detect problems at the earliest possible stage, to ensure swift and minimally invasive treatment which is normally cheaper and less traumatic than if the problem was left to worsen. For example, a small cavity/hole is relatively easy and cheap to restore. If left for months or years, the cavity progresses and the treatment, cost and prognosis becomes more complex. The basis of dental care is regular and ongoing maintenance.
What to expect at your check up
A clinical examination
The dentist will use a mirror and other instruments to check the condition of the teeth and gums (sometimes you might feel slight discomfort when the gums are being assessed)
X-rays
Keeping your x-rays up to date is important but not necessary at every check up. Dependant of your risk level and history, your dentist will access when they need to be taken. If you are unsure why you are getting x-rays, make sure to ask.
Depending on what needs to be investigated and how long it has been since your last set of x rays – you may have a large panoramic x ray taken (especially if you have not had your wisdom teeth removed or you are suffering jaw pain/ toothache), 2 small x rays to check between posterior teeth for decay and/or gum disease.
Oral Hygiene Instruction
Every patient will experience some form of gum disease in their lifetime, if your gums bleed or gum disease is detected, we will show you techniques to make them healthy again – because healthy gums don’t bleed. You may be surprised to know that gum disease is linked to other health issues such as Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease and so it is not only important for you oral health – but your general well being.
Keeping your oral hygiene techniques in check is important and a refresher is never a bad thing. The fact is, we may only have been taught once when we are a child. As we get older and anatomy changes — so do the techniques. Optimal oral health is the aim and dentists are very committed to ensuring you have the right tools to maintain a healthy mouth outside of your visits.
Scale and Polish
Every 6 months you should have the buildup (calculus/tartar) removed professionally. This buildup inhibits your ability to clean your teeth and gums effectively and leads to decay and/or gum disease. Some people find this procedure unpleasant and sensitive, however, gentle delivery and the latest equipment allows this procedure to be done without very much discomfort at all most of the time.
Treatment Overview
If the outcome of your check up is all A’s, wonderful, we’ll see you in another 6 months! But that is not always the case for many. If treatment is needed, we want you to understand what course of action is going to be needed. Many patients can become overwhelmed. This is where staff can help you book future appointments and give you a print out of any treatments needed and in what order.
Chinook Mall Family Dental Clinic wants you coming and going from our office feeling great and confident in the assessment and treatment of your mouth. With a knowledgeable and compassionate staff Dr. Charchuk takes pride in offering patients only the best of care. Don’t miss your 6 month check up, contact us to book in for your next appointment.
