Routine dental appointments are essential to maintain good oral health and a happy smile. A standard dental assessment is carried out by an experienced, qualified dentist and is the best way to spot any problems with your mouth before they become serious. Both adults and children require routine dental appointments on a regular basis because preventative dentistry is the key to keeping your mouth healthy.

Routine dental appointments are usually carried out every six months, but the number of times you need to attend these appointments varies from patient to patient. Some patients may require more frequent visits, while others may need to come into the practice less often – your dentist will advise you on how often you need a regular visit.

If it is your first appointment at the practice, your dentist will take a full dental and medical history. They will also:

1. Thoroughly examine your teeth, gums and mouth.
2. Take X-rays if necessary.
3. Discuss any dental problems you may have had since your last visit.
4. Discuss general health and dietary issues that can affect your teeth and gums – such as alcohol consumption or smoking.
5. Discuss your teeth-cleaning habits, such as brushing technique, and recommend any improvements such as interdental brushes or flossing as required.
6. Explain any further treatment you may need, such as fillings, root canal treatment or hygienist appointments.
7. Provide you with a full treatment plan.
8. Answer any questions you may have regarding your treatment and what options are available.
9. If you require no other treatment, your dentist will let you know when you should come for your next routine check-up.

• Maintain good oral health.
• Spot any problems early.
• In many cases, prevent problems before they start.

Radiographs (X-rays)

Every so often your dentist or hygienist may request your permission to take some x-rays. Ever wondered why we take x-rays?

1. Look for decay between teeth – sometimes its not visible to the naked eye.
2. To check for bone loss – an x-ray will show the degree of bone loss.
3. Check for decay under fillings - an x-ray is the only way to see this type of decay.
4. Look for infection at the tip of the root – an x-ray will confirm if you have an infection near the bone.
5. Examine the area before procedures – gives dentists and hygienists a full view of the teeth and bone.

Often our dentists may ask you to book an appointment with our nurse to take x-rays so that they can review them before your next appointment.

• Identifying problems early.
• Maintaining good oral health.
• Preventing tooth loss.