What to Expect at a Dental Visit

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you may be nervous about what to expect. In reality, there is nothing to be nervous about! Whether you are visiting a general dentist for a checkup and cleaning, or a cosmetic dentist to improve the appearance of your teeth and gums, they will do everything they can to help you to feel comfortable. Still, it’s good to have a general idea of what to expect when visiting the dentist cary north carolina. First, though, it’s important to understand that there are different types of dentistry.

Types of Dentistry

A trip to the dentist may be quite different depending on why you are going, and what type of dentistry you need performed. Oftentimes, people will visit the dentist for general services like cleanings and checkups. Other times, they will need more in-depth procedures completed.

General Visit

A trip to a general dentist for general dentistry services is pretty standard, as are the expectations. During a routine cleaning and checkup, your dentist will do a visual exam of your teeth, gums, tongue and cheeks to ensure there is no infection, decay or damage. If it has been a while since your last visit to the dentist, or if they suspect there is an issue, they may also take x-rays. X-rays help to see the teeth and jawbone below the gum line.

Your dentist will also perform a cleaning, which will involve the use of special instruments to remove built up plaque, tartar and debris. They may also polish your teeth after they have been properly cleaned. If there is gum disease, they may decide to complete a deep cleaning service. They may also schedule this deep cleaning for another visit.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is the field of dentistry that involves procedures that improve the appearance of a patient’s teeth or gums. These procedures may also help with the patient’s oral health. When you visit a cosmetic dentist, they will inspect your mouth, and will discuss different options for services with you. They will then set an appointment to complete the service.

What to expect during the service varies greatly. Cosmetic dentistry encompasses a large variety of different services. Still, you can expect a consultation, in which your dentist will discuss your options, and what those procedures will look like. From there, they will schedule a time to perform the chosen service.

Speak with Your Dentist

If you are unsure as to what services will be provided and what your trip to the dentist will look like, speak with your dentist or their office staff. They will be able to provide you with more details about what to expect during your visit. If there is a follow-up visit, your dentist will also walk you through what to expect on the next visit.

If you haven’t seen your general dentist for a checkup and cleaning in the last six months, make sure to schedule an appointment for these routine services.

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