Many people are intimidated by the prospect of visiting the dentist, but there is no need to be! A trip to the clinic should be a routine part of your healthcare. After all, your oral health is linked to your overall health. That’s one of the reasons why it is recommended that you visit a dental office every six months.
Let’s talk about what you can expect when you go to the dentist and where you can find the best dentist in Eugene, OR.
Paperwork
The first thing you will do when you arrive at the dentist’s office is to fill out forms. This paperwork helps the dental staff gain important information about your oral health and medical history.
Your dentist needs to know about the following:
- If you have any allergies
- Medications that you take
- Medical conditions that may affect your oral health
Be sure to bring a list of all medications with you to the appointment.
Mouth Examination
The next step is for the dentist to examine your mouth, teeth, and gums thoroughly. This usually includes taking X-rays so the dentist can have a better view of the internal structures in your mouth.
The dentist will also look for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other dental issues they must address.
Cleaning & Polishing
Once the examination is complete, the dentist will clean and polish your teeth by scraping off plaque, tartar, and other debris. This process can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Fluoride Treatment and Sealants
After cleaning, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment or sealant to help protect your teeth from cavities.
Fluoride treatments strengthen the enamel on your teeth, while sealants act as a barrier against bacteria and food particles.
Follow-up
Before you leave the office, your dentist will give you instructions on maintaining good oral hygiene. They may also recommend further treatments if necessary.
Be sure to ask any questions you have. That way, you will fully understand their recommendations for keeping your mouth healthy.
Treatment (If You Are There for Any)
If you are visiting the dentist for a specific problem like tooth decay, your doctor may recommend a dental treatment.
Depending on the severity of the issue, they may even refer you to an orthodontist or periodontist.
The most common dental treatments include the following:
- Fillings – to repair cavities and broken or cracked teeth and replace missing pieces of the tooth
- Crowns – to restore and strengthen teeth that are cracked or otherwise compromised
- Root canals – to remove the infected pulp inside a tooth, allowing for the preservation of the natural tooth
- Bridges – to fill in gaps left by missing teeth and help restore chewing function
- Dental implants – to replace missing teeth and provide stability to the jawbone
- Orthodontics (braces) – to straighten teeth and correct bite problems
Regardless of your treatment, your dentist will explain the procedure before they start. They will also answer any questions you have about the process and give aftercare instructions.
Follow Up Appointments
Once your dental treatment is complete, the dentist will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure everything is healing correctly.
They may also recommend a different type of treatment if necessary. It is important to follow the dentist’s instructions and keep up with your scheduled appointments for optimal oral health.
Trusted Dental Office Near You in Eugene, OR
Are you looking for a trusted dental office near you in Eugene? You can rely on 360 Dental! Dr. Ari Binder leads our team of compassionate and trained experts who are excited to care for you. With his expertise and knowledge, you can rest assured that you are in good hands.
To learn about our comprehensive services, call us today at (541) 689-1645. You can also request an appointment online for your convenience.
We look forward to serving you!