A dental checkup is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and should be carried out every six months, or as recommended by your dentist. These routine visits to the dentist are crucial for early detection and treatment of oral health issues before they become severe.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

A dental checkup typically consists of two parts: the examination and the cleaning.

  1. Examination: The dentist will check your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of problems, such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, or other dental issues. This might involve using a small mirror to inspect hard-to-see areas, and dental tools to check the strength of your teeth and gums. They may also take X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums.

  2. Cleaning: After the examination, a dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning of your teeth. This involves removing the built-up tartar and plaque that regular brushing and flossing can't eliminate. They will then polish your teeth, often with a gritty paste, to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surface. Finally, you may receive a professional flossing and a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth until your next visit.

    Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

    1. Early detection of dental problems: Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to identify any oral health problems early on, such as cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer. Early detection often results in simpler and more cost-effective treatment.

    2. Preventing plaque and tartar build-up: Even with regular brushing and flossing, certain areas of the mouth are difficult to clean thoroughly. During a checkup, your dental hygienist can clean these areas and remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

    3. Maintaining a bright and healthy smile: Regular cleanings prevent staining and keep your teeth bright and white. Plus, if you have had dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or implants, regular checkups allow your dentist to make sure everything is in good shape.

    4. Saving money in the long run: By attending regular checkups and getting early treatment, you can avoid complex dental procedures down the line, saving time and money.

    5. General health: Oral health is linked to overall health. Regular dental checkups can help detect symptoms of systemic health issues like diabetes or heart disease, which can often manifest in the mouth before anywhere else in the body.


      In conclusion, regular dental checkups are an important preventive measure that ensures your teeth stay healthy, function properly, and look great. By keeping up with this routine, you’re investing in a lifetime of good oral health.