Has it been awhile since your last appointment? You’re not alone; only 65.5% of the U.S. had a dental exam or cleaning in the past year. You might wonder what to expect at the dentist when you walk through our doors.
At Shrewsbury Dental Associates, we strive to create a welcoming and transparent environment that delivers exceptional care, supporting your long-term oral health. From X-rays and cleanings to a full exam, here’s everything you need to know before your visit.
Brushing and flossing every day is essential, but even with the best at-home habits, plaque can build up on your teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, plaque hardens into a substance called tartar, which can’t be removed by brushing alone. That’s where professional cleanings come in.
Dental cleanings, exams, and X-rays are more than just routine; they’re preventative. By catching issues early, such as cavities or gum inflammation, we can help you avoid more serious dental problems.
We recommend coming in every six months for a cleaning, exam, and any necessary X-rays. With regular visits, we'll keep your teeth and gums in top shape and monitor any changes in your oral health over time.
Whether it’s your first visit or you're an old pro, a little preparation can help you get the most out of your dental appointment. Here’s what we recommend:
· Bring a list of medications: Some health conditions and medications can affect your oral health.
· Note any symptoms or concerns: Let us know if you’ve been experiencing tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or jaw discomfort.
· Update your dental and medical history: This allows us to provide safe and effective care suited to each patient's unique needs.
· Don’t skip brushing: Brush and floss before your visit, but avoid overdoing it —you don’t need to scrub extra hard!
· Come with Questions: Our friendly staff is happy to answer any of your questions, from product recommendations to dental facts and more!
From the moment you step into our office, our goal is to make you feel informed and at ease. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect during a typical dental visit:
1. Warm Welcome and Check-In
Our friendly team will greet you, assist you in completing any necessary paperwork, and verify your insurance or payment information. If it’s your first time with us, we’ll take the opportunity to get to know your dental history and goals.
2. Digital X-Rays
Depending on when your last set of X-rays was taken, we may begin with digital imaging. These X-rays provide a clear and detailed view of what’s happening below the surface, enabling us to detect cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth that may not be visible during a regular exam.
3. Professional Cleaning
One of our licensed dental hygienists will gently but thoroughly clean your teeth using specialized tools to remove tartar, plaque, and surface stains. We’ll then brush and polish your teeth, leaving them feeling fresh and smooth.
4. Gum Health Check
We’ll assess the health of your gums by checking for signs of inflammation, gum recession, or infection. Healthy gums are as important as healthy teeth, and early detection of gum disease is key to effective treatment.
5. ComprehensiveExam
Once your cleaning is complete, your dentist will perform a thorough exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth. We’ll check for:
· Tooth decay
· Cracked or worn fillings
· Oral cancer warning signs
· Bite and alignment issues
We’ll discuss our findings with you and, if needed, create a customized treatment plan. We’ll also answer any questions you might have so you leave the office feeling informed and confident.
To keep your dental care on track, we’ll help you pre-schedule your next appointment before you leave. This ensures that you stay consistent with your preventative care and avoid last-minute scheduling stress.
Taking care of your teeth is one of the best investments you can make in your overall health. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or it’s been years since your last appointment, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your smile.
If you have questions, call us at (717)235-7015, and our staff will be happy to answer any of your questions so you know what to expect at the dentist. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact our office today to schedule your next exam and cleaning. We can’t wait to see you smile!
