Why is it important to visit the dentist every six months?

Oral professionals recommend a six monthly check up is the best way to detect possible oral issues before it’s too late. Enabling your dentist to detect tooth decay, gum disease or oral cancer early, booking in for a regular check up and clean can improve your smile and overall oral health. A six monthly check up and clean can be the difference between a small amount of work or a big bill at the end of your treatment.

Is six monthly dental cleaning necessary?

Gum disease and tooth decay are two of the most common, preventable diseases in the world. Booking in for a six monthly check to have your teeth cleaned and checked gives your dental team a chance to examine your oral health. Using a mirror to evaluate your teeth and gums, during your six monthly check up and clean, the oral hygienist will look for signs of gingivitis, including inflammation, bleeding and tenderness. Your dentist will also tell you, even if you brush and floss daily, and don’t have pain, a problem or a cavity, you should still book in for a regular six monthly check up and clean. Getting your teeth cleaned and polished not only gives you a great smile, but it also prevents future decay and gum disease.

What happens at a six month dental check up?

When you arrive at your six month check up, the dentist will thoroughly check for signs of tooth decay or gum disease. If they find evidence of gingivitis, cavities or gum disease during your six monthly check up, if necessary, your dentist will be able to perform immediate treatment. At these routine six monthly check ups, the dentist will also look for possible areas where tooth decay and gum disease can form in the future. Targeting those sites early can eliminate the need for expensive dental work down the track. At your check up, your dentist may also ask about your general health and any problems you’ve had with your teeth, mouth or gums since your last visit. They may also enquire about, and give you advice on, your diet, smoking and alcohol use as well as teeth-cleaning habits.

What else will my dentist look for at my six month check up?

Your dentist will no doubt pay special attention to plaque and tartar. And that’s because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short amount of time. Did you know that certain foods, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well? If soft plaque is not removed, it can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue creating calculus. And if it’s not treated, calculus can lead to gum disease.

The importance of regular six monthly check ups at your dentist.

Regular six monthly check ups at your dentist are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums. In between those examinations, it’s important that you work to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. If you need additional help, your dentist at Littlehampton Dental may even suggest more frequent visits. Whether you have concerns around tooth pain, or you’re simply ready to book in for your six month check up, speak with our friendly team over the phone on 8398 2500, or book online. We are located conveniently in the Adelaide Hills and have free, on site parking.