Amy & Aron's

Regular dental checkups by your dentist are one of the most important health maintenance
activities consumers can do for themselves. Your mouth can be a window into your overall
health. Dentists will, of course, check the health of your teeth and gums. They will also check for
various cancers and note other medical issues that should be followed up with your family
physician.

The following is a step by step explanation of what occurs when you go for a dental
checkup.

Greet Your Dentist's Receptionist

The receptionist will confirm your appointment and all of your personal information including
current address and contact information. If you have dental insurance coverage, they will
reconfirm that this information is also still up to date and accurate. Your costs here at the dentist
will be submitted to your insurance company for you in most cases. They will let your dental
hygienist know that you have arrived and are ready to see them.

Next Step – Dental Hygienist

The second person you see during your dental appointment is the dental hygienist. They are
responsible for your regular dental care and supporting the dentist later in the appointment. The
dental hygienist will clean your teeth, check for cavities, the health of your gums, take x-rays
and note the overall health of your teeth and gums.

Review Your History

If you are taking any new medications or have changed the dosage, let your hygienist know.
Also if you have had health changes, need special procedures etc., let them know. These would
include such issues as diabetes, arthritis, pregnancy, heart issues, and any other special
requirements you may have. If you are nervous or anxious let them know your concerns. They
will adapt the care they provide to meet your needs.

Clean Your Teeth

The next step is to clean your teeth and remove any tartar buildup on your teeth and below the
gum line. They will also use floss to remove those last bits of buildup around your teeth. If your gumsare inflamed or you do not floss often, there may be a small amount of blood. Regular
flossing will decrease the buildup of tartar, keep your gums clean and reduce inflammation.

The hygienist will also polish your teeth with a tool that has a spinning head and paste that is
slightly abrasive. Your teeth will be smoother and less plaque will adhere to your teeth.
During both the cleaning and the polishing the hygienist will use a vacuum device to remove
water and saliva from your mouth. You will also be given an opportunity to rinse your mouth with
water when the cleaning is finished.



Teeth Examination

One of the most important steps in the process is to examine your teeth for cavities and gum
inflammation. They will use a metal probe and metal mirror to examine the gums and teeth. The
hygienist will check for swelling of your gums, redness, sores etc. They also look for pockets
below the gum line that could indicate gum disease which should be monitored.

Dental X-Rays

Dental x-rays are taken at irregular intervals as needed by the dentist and coordinated with your
dental health coverage. The image will show your teeth above and below the gum line. The x-ray
is used to determine if additional care is needed.

Examination by Your Dentist

In most cases, you will see your dentist for only a few minutes. Your hygienist will make a verbal
report about the condition of your teeth and gums. The dentist will also complete an
examination. This your opportunity to ask any questions about your oral health that you may
have.

Once you have discussed the results of your examination with your hygienist and the dentist,
the next steps can be determined. In most cases, it will be scheduling the next appointment. In
rare cases, you may need a follow-up appointment to complete additional work. They may make
suggestions for regular brushing and flossing.

A routine visit to the dentist for a checkup on a regular basis along with daily flossing and
brushing after every meal will ensure healthy teeth and gums. Each visit to the dentist will follow
the same process. Always ask any questions you have about each step and of course the
charges for your visit.