What You May Expect from Your Dental Visit After Going Years Without an Appointment
Seeing your local dentist for routine dental examinations and cleanings is critical for good oral health. Patients in Walnut Creek, California, visit Dr. Troy Schmedding and the team at Family Dentistry of Walnut Creek for their routine check-ups.
It’s Never Too Late to See a Dentist
There are so many reasons why people neglect seeing a dentist and find themselves, years later, needing to book an appointment. Maybe you are suddenly experiencing pain or facing a dental emergency. Perhaps you have just decided that now is the time to prioritize your oral health for an improved and healthier smile. Whether it has been 5 or 15 years, there is never a better time than now to book an appointment. Any successful dental team will be available to work with you and develop a plan for improved dental health and not be there to make you feel shame for not seeing a dentist.
When you are seeing a dentist for the first time in (let’s say) two years or more, there are some things you should expect.
Sensitive or Bleeding Gums
If it has been years since you have seen a dentist, your gums will likely be sensitive or even experience mild bleeding as your dental hygienist begins flossing and cleaning your teeth. While you may feel a need to be alarmed at this, it is not necessarily indicative of a problem. Gums can bleed when they are not used to the pressure of being flossed. However, a treatment plan can be created if your gums are bleeding due to periodontal disease.
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Extended or Deep Cleaning
Depending on the condition of your teeth, you may have a significant layer of plaque on your teeth. Because of this, it may take longer than usual to perform a full cleaning. In some cases, additional work may be required with a deep cleaning.
X-Rays
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, new dental X-rays will need to be taken to properly diagnose your current oral health. X-rays allow your dentist to see any underlying problems which are not visible to the eye.
To schedule a dental exam and cleaning with Dr. Schmedding, please call (925) 956-4266.
