Visiting the dentist is something that everyone should do at least a couple of times a year, but you might be wondering what to expect if you’re starting at a new dentist. A standard dentist appointment can offer a fairly universal experience, though they can vary from time to time. Every office is different and run by different people, so you might find that some dentists offer additional perks for their patients. In this article, we will discuss what you can expect from your visit to the dentist.

Common Expectations for a Regular Appointment

A standard dentist appointment is what you are signing up for when you go for your regular visits every six months. Depending on your dental health, you might find yourself offered additional options to better support your teeth and gums. The typical appointment offers a few basic options. 

A Look at Your Dental Health

Your dental health is one component of your overall health, and dentists can learn quite a bit by looking at your teeth. Any time that you go in for a standard visit, your team will help you to get a clearer picture of your dental health, allowing you to learn more about how your teeth and gums are being impacted by your current habits and care levels.

These insights can be very valuable because they offer a snapshot into the state of your health, which allows you to make changes to better support your dental health in the future. Of course, if there are any specific concerns, your dentist will identify and address those issues as well.

A Standard Cleaning

A typical cleaning at the dentist is the main reason that patients head in, and it can be a great way to instantly improve your teeth. Your dentist will scrape away any buildup, remove staining, and ensure that they hit every part of your teeth—and your gums. When you visit the dentist, they will also floss your teeth and test your gum health as well. 

X-Rays

Getting x-rays is a standard common practice that is included with most dental appointments and is often covered by insurance. X-rays can highlight any concerns or issues that might be present in your teeth, allowing you to address any big issues sooner rather than later.

The Takeaway

A standard visit to the dentist is a helpful and regular step towards improving your body’s overall health. Our teeth can tell us so much about our health, and finding any issues as soon as possible can save you time, money, and comfort. When you go to your next appointment, remember to ask your dentist about additional services, like teeth whitening. You might be surprised by just how much the standard dentist can offer!