A 6-monthly dental check-up is an essential part of maintaining your oral health. While we know that a visit to the dentist isn’t typically something that people look forward to, at Hampton Beach Dentists we do our very best to make you feel calm and at ease. From the moment you sit in our plush recliners, we want you to relax. You get to sit back and watch our in-chair entertainment system while we get to work on your teeth.
Step 1: Dental examination
If you’re a new patient to our practice, or it’s been a while since your last X-ray, the first step will be a quick X-ray to check what’s happening in your mouth that we can’t see by eye.
A check-up is kicked off with a comprehensive examination of your mouth. Your dentist will thoroughly inspect your teeth, gums, tongue and jaw.
They will check each tooth for signs of:
- Tooth decay
- Abnormal wear and tear of your teeth from teeth grinding
- Cracks or chips in your teeth
- Any issues with old fillings, crowns or other restorative work
Your gums will also be checked for any signs that could indicate gum disease, such as redness, swelling, bleeding or recession.
Another important part of a dental check-up is an oral cancer screening. This includes checking all the soft tissue in your mouth (such as cheeks, tongue and throat) for any lumps, sores or discolouration.
Lastly, your dentists will check your “bite” – how your teeth come together when your mouth is closed. This is important to assess if you have any bite issues or issues with the functioning of your jaw joint, also known as the temporomandibular joint.
We’ll always chat to you along the way
While we are checking out your teeth, your dentist will ask you questions about your habits and lifestyle to help us best manage your oral health. This approach provides the best for our patients — not just a quick fix but lifelong improved dental outcomes.
After completing the examination, your dentist will discuss any issues they have found and recommended treatment options. And of course, if you have any questions, our dentists are always happy to provide further information about their findings, and the next steps for treatment.
Step 2: Dental cleaning
After your teeth have been examined, it’s time for the cleaning to begin, during which more checking will occur. Even if you brush and floss regularly, there are areas in your mouth that can be hard to reach, which is where professional cleaning comes in.
The cleaning process involves using a scaler, which sprays water and vibrates as it passes over your teeth. This tool breaks down tartar, especially in the hard-to-reach areas where it tends to accumulate. Each tooth is meticulously treated to ensure thorough cleaning.
Once the tartar is removed, the cleaning process is almost complete. Each and every tooth is then manually checked to ensure it is free of build-up and then flossing is done between the teeth before they are polished. We use a special polishing attachment with a polishing paste to smooth the tooth surfaces. This not only gives your teeth a clean, shiny appearance but also helps to remove minor surface stains, making your smile brighter.
Are you overdue for a dental check-up and clean?
Even if you feel that your teeth are in great condition, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for preventing problems before they become serious. We firmly believe that prevention is better than cure, and we know that long-term dental management feels a whole lot better than emergency repairs.
If it’s your first visit with us, or it has been a while since we’ve last seen you, the team at Hampton Beach Dentists would love to look after your teeth. Our friendly and caring dentists are focused on offering the best dental care possible, with no judgement.
To make an appointment at our Hampton dental practice, book online or call us on 03 9598 5666.
