Preventive dental care is everything that you do to maintain good oral health and prevent the development of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and enamel wear. It includes brushing and flossing, maintaining a healthy lifestyle (including a healthy diet that limits sugary beverages and snacks), and regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
The aim of preventive dental care is to maintain good oral hygiene and detect and treat problems in their early stages before they become more serious, difficult, and expensive to treat. Research has shown that people who get regular dental checkups and maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine at home significantly reduce their risk of tooth decay and gum disease, and are more able to maintain good oral health throughout their lives.
How often should people get dental checkups?
The American Dental Association (ADA) states that you should see your dentist regularly, but does not provide a specific time frame. The ADA advises that you should follow your dentist’s guidance regarding how often to schedule checkups.
Typically, people need a dental check-up and cleaning every six months. But if you have oral health issues or have a higher risk for dental problems you may need to visit your dentist more frequently. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system, may also need to visit the dentist more frequently to maintain good oral health.
It is important to talk to your dentist about how often you should schedule dental check-ups and cleanings, as they can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and oral health status. If you do not have a dentist, schedule a checkup and cleaning ASAP, and then talk to the dentist to work out a plan to maintain your oral health.
What happens during a dental checkup?
A dental check-up is a routine examination performed by a dentist to assess the health of a person’s teeth, gums, and mouth. During a typical dental check-up, the dentist will do the following:
- Review your medical and dental history. The dentist will ask you about any recent changes in medical or dental health, and any medications you are currently talking.
- Cleaning. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
- Examination. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and any other oral health issues. They may also take x-rays to get an inside view of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding tissues. X-rays can reveal hidden dental problems, such as decay between the teeth, infection or abscesses in the gums, or problems with the jawbone.
- Assessment. The dentist will evaluate the results of your examination and provide recommendations for maintaining good oral health and preventing future dental problems. This may include recommendations for at-home care, such as brushing and flossing, and scheduling follow-up appointments for additional treatments, if needed.
- Discussion. The dentist answers any questions you may have.
A dental check-up is an important part of preventive dental care, as it helps detect and treat dental problems in their early stages before they become more serious and difficult to treat. No matter how great your at-home oral health routine is, you absolutely need to see your dentist regularly for your preventive care checkups and cleanings.
When should my baby get their first dental checkup?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises that children should start seeing a dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings as soon as their first tooth appears, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This allows the dentist to monitor the development of their teeth and gums and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene and nutrition. Early dental visits can also help prevent the development of cavities and other dental problems and establish a foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
What happens during a baby’s dental checkup?
During these early checkups, the dentist – a pediatric dentist or your family general dentist – will ask about the baby’s medical and dental history, including any recent changes and any current medications. The dentist will check baby’s teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and any other oral health issues. They may take X-rays if needed. Professional tooth cleanings usually begin when your baby is a toddler, between 12 and 36 months (about 3 years)
After the exam, your dentist will talk to you about ways to maintain good oral health and prevent future dental problems. This discussion may include guidance on oral hygiene, nutrition, and teething, and tips for dealing with thumb-sucking or pacifier use. The dentist will also answer any questions you may have about your baby’s oral development and health.
It is important for babies and young children to see a pediatric dentist regularly for check-ups, as early detection and treatment of dental problems can help prevent more serious problems in the future. Don’t ignore early preventive dental care because baby teeth will be replaced by adult teeth. Oral diseases can impact the health of permanent teeth and gums, as well as your child’s overall health and well-being. Establish a solid foundation for a lifetime of good oral health early.
Do people with dentures still need preventive dental care?
Yes, even if you have dentures, you should still see a dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Dentures can cause oral health problems if they do not fit properly, and regular dental visits can help ensure that dentures fit well and are comfortable.
During a check-up, your dentist can examine the fit of the dentures and adjust them, if necessary, as well as check for signs of oral health problems, such as oral infections or oral cancer. They may also clean and polish the dentures, which can help remove any built-up plaque or tartar and improve their appearance (and keep your breath fresher).
At home care for dentures
People with dentures should also clean their dentures daily and remove them at night to allow the gum tissues to rest. If you experience any discomfort or changes in fit, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Regular dental check-ups and proper care can help people with dentures maintain good oral health and enjoy the benefits of their dentures for many years.
But I can’t afford regular dental care!
By taking steps to maintain good oral health and prevent the development of dental problems, you can reduce the need for more extensive and costly dental treatments in the future. For example, regular dental cleanings can remove plaque and tartar that can cause tooth decay and gum disease, reducing the need for fillings, extractions, or other treatments. Additionally, early detection and treatment of dental problems can prevent them from becoming more severe and costly to treat over time. So, investing in preventive dental care can help you save money in the long run by avoiding or reducing the need for expensive dental treatments.
Aetna dental insurance covers your preventive care at 100% – that means you can get all your basic preventive care (checkups, cleanings, x-rays and sealants) at no additional cost when you visit an in network dental provider. And with an Aetna dental savings plan, an alternative to traditional dental insurance, you can receive savings of 15-50% on virtually any dental procedure. Learn more about saving on dental care with Aetna dental insurance and Aetna dental savings plans today.