What to Expect on Your Next Dental Check-Up

A routine dental check-up is a little like an auto tune-up. Just like a mechanic, your family dentist checks for minor problems that need addressing before they become serious. You don't want your dental transmission to fall out on a road trip and—hang on; this metaphor just got away from us. You don't want a tiny cavity to worsen into tooth decay, and a possible tooth extraction when a filling is needed would fix the problem.

Family dentists recommend routine dental cleanings and check-ups every six months. At Rodeo Dental & Orthodontics, we start childhood check-ups before baby’s first tooth to familiarize little ones with the dentist’s office (and our dentist offices are fun! Just ask our mascot Moo-Moo). We continue with six-month check-ups throughout childhood, adolescence, and adulthood to help your teeth last a lifetime. (We also provide dental implants and dentures if teeth need replacing.)

What Happens During a Dental Check-Up

• When you check in, our receptionist asks you to complete a quick patient questionnaire about your recent oral health.
• When you’re in the exam room, one of our dental hygienists cleans your teeth, removing tartar and plaque from your teeth and gum line.
• At the end of the dental cleaning, the hygienist uses a tooth-whitening polishing paste to keep your smile at its best.
• The hygienist ends the dental cleaning by flossing your teeth.
• The hygienist takes X-rays if required and reports their findings to the dentist.
• Your dentist examines your gums, soft palate, throat, and neck for abnormalities.
• After reviewing new X-rays, the dentist recommends any dental work you may need and discusses your overall oral health and dental hygiene habits.

How long does a dental appointment take?

On average, a routine dental check-up lasts 30 - 60 minutes, including the dental cleaning and dental exam.

How Often Should Kids go to the Dentist?

Children under the age of three should see a pediatric dentist every three months, with six-month checkups after age three. The primary goal of early childhood visits is to get the child comfortable with the dentist, something Rodeo Dental excels at. We fill our waiting room with games, interactive activities, and special monthly events to make going to the dentist as much fun as possible.

Dental checkups for kids under three are also excellent educational opportunities for parents. If you have any questions about fluoride, pediatric dental hygiene, or other concerns, we’re happy to get you the information you need to make the right decision for your child.

How Often Should You Go To the Dentist?

For most people, a six-month check-up schedule is sufficient for preventive dentistry. If you have conditions like gum disease that increase your risk for dental issues, you may need to schedule dental check-ups more often. Your family dentist can help you decide on a routine check-up schedule if this is the case.

Is teeth cleaning necessary every 6 months?

Arranging teeth cleaning with every six-month check-up keeps your teeth looking their best while maintaining good oral health. Going longer than six months between cleanings gives plaque and tartar more opportunity to build up, increasing the risk of gum disease and cavities.

Why 6-Month Dental Check-Ups Are Necessary

Early Detection of Dental Issues

Routine dental check-ups allow dentists to identify cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Dental hygienists thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar that might slip by regular brushing and flossing.

Ongoing Health Assessments

Six-month check-ups let us monitor your oral health, including your bite alignment, gum health, and ongoing health concerns.

Preventive Dentistry

Routine dental check-ups prevent serious dental issues by catching problems in their early stages.

Oral Cancer Screening

Dental check-ups include screenings for abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer increases the chance of successful treatment.

Personalized Advice

You can take advantage of regular dental check-ups to ask your dentist for advice on brushing, flossing, and other aspects of oral health.

Take the First Step toward Better Dental Health!

Contact Rodeo Dental & Orthodontics to set up your routine dental check-ups. Find your nearest office and schedule an appointment today! Our family dentists and friendly office staff can’t wait to meet you. We make dentistry fun and stress-free, no matter your age!