If it’s been a while since your last visit to the dentist, or if you’re new to our practice, you might be wondering what happens during a dental exam and cleaning. At Advocate Dental of Palatine, we believe that understanding what to expect at the dentist can help ease any anxiety and make your appointment more comfortable. Let’s walk through what typically happens during a routine dental checkup.

The Dental Cleaning Process

Your appointment usually begins with a thorough dental cleaning performed by one of our skilled dental hygienists. During a routine dental cleaning, your hygienist will use specialized instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.

Here’s what the cleaning portion typically includes:

  • Scaling: Removal of plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline
  • Polishing: Buffing your teeth with a special paste to remove surface stains
  • Flossing: Professional flossing to clean between each tooth
  • Fluoride treatment: Application of fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay

The entire cleaning process is generally painless, though you might experience some mild sensitivity if you have significant buildup or sensitive teeth. Don’t hesitate to let your hygienist know if you feel any discomfort during the procedure.

The Comprehensive Dental Exam

After your cleaning, Dr. George Skoog will perform a comprehensive dental exam to assess your overall oral health. This examination goes beyond just checking for cavities; it’s a complete evaluation of your teeth, gums, and mouth.

What Dr. Skoog Checks During Your Exam

During your dental checkup, you can expect a thorough inspection that includes:

  • Examining each tooth for signs of decay, cracks, or damage
  • Checking your gums for signs of gum disease or inflammation
  • Evaluating existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges
  • Screening for oral cancer by examining your tongue, throat, and soft tissues
  • Assessing your bite and jaw alignment
  • Reviewing any dental X-rays taken during your visit

Diagnostic X-Rays

Depending on your dental history and how long it’s been since your last visit, Dr. Skoog may recommend taking X-rays. These images allow us to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums, helping us detect problems like cavities between teeth, bone loss, impacted teeth, or infections that aren’t visible during a visual examination.

Personalized Treatment Recommendations

After completing your exam, Dr. Skoog will discuss his findings with you and answer any questions you might have. If any issues are detected, he’ll explain your treatment options and work with you to develop a plan that fits your needs and schedule. If everything looks healthy, he’ll provide personalized advice on maintaining your oral health until your next visit.

Schedule Your Next Visit

Understanding what to expect at the dentist helps make routine dental visits less stressful. Regular dental exams and cleanings every six months are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and catching potential problems early when they’re easier to treat.

Ready to schedule your next appointment? Call Advocate Dental of Palatine at (847) 359-8732 today. We look forward to helping you maintain your brightest, healthiest smile!