Dental Exams & Checkups

Dental exams and checkups in Mississauga, Ontario, include preventive care and catch problems early. Find out more.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams and Checkups

Dentists stress the importance of seeing an oral health care professional regularly. The reason is that bacteria never stop growing in your mouth, and regular dental exams and checkups help prevent cavities and decay.

Studies suggest that bacteria start growing immediately after you brush and floss, making oral health care routines important for halting their growth. Going to the dentist for an exam and checkup adds to your battle plan. Dental visits can catch issues early when they are easier to remedy.

Exams Include Cleaning

One of the most significant reasons for maintaining your dental visits is that most include teeth cleaning. Toothbrushing and home dental care can help remove plaque but cannot remove tartar. Teeth cleaning by a professional dentist or hygienist removes cavity-causing plaque and tartar from teeth.

An X-ray Reveals Problems

One thing to expect from a dental exam and checkup once a year is an X-ray. An X-ray reveals problems the dentist can’t see from a visual exam. It can show an infection, bone loss, or an impacted tooth. Today’s digital X-rays are more comfortable for the patient and provide results within minutes, with images uploaded in colour to a computer, so the patient gets through the dental exam and checkup faster.

Preparing for a Dental Exam and Checkup

The basic recommendation is to go for a dental exam and checkup twice yearly. However, your dentist may advise you to visit more often if you have ongoing issues such as plaque, tartar, or gum disease. Some may need to go for an exam and deep teeth cleaning three or four times a year. Preparing for the dentist will ease anxiety and build confidence, whether it is for you, your child, or another family member.
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Don’t change your eating habits. Eat breakfast or lunch. Being hungry will make you more anxious. Changing a child’s diet for the dentist signals to them that something may be wrong.

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Brush, floss, and use mouthwash before you go. This is both helpful and courteous to the dentist.

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Carry a list of prescriptions with you. Your dentist will ask for them, as some medications and conditions affect oral health.

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Wear comfortable clothes. This will help ease stress while waiting and during the exam.

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Make a list of questions for the dentist. Being prepared ensures all your questions are answered.

Talking through what to expect at a dental checkup
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Considering a new dentist? Has it been a while since you’ve had a dental exam? Make one today by calling Versante Dental or booking an appointment online.

FAQ

What do I need to bring to my first dental appointment?
You will need your insurance, CDCP, or other program information, your identification, and the names of your previous dentist and primary care doctor. You should also bring a list of all your medications, including their dosages.
How long does a dental exam and checkup take?
It depends on each case. Most exams and checkups take around an hour, maybe an hour and a half.
What happens after a dental exam and checkup?
The dentist will create a personalized treatment plan for you that addresses any issues found. The staff will go over the cost, what your plan covers, and any out-of-pocket expenses. They will work with you to schedule your next appointment so you can move through the treatment plan at your pace and within your budget.
What if my dental issues need a specialist?
Your dentist will determine that and refer you to a specialist.