A dental checkup is one of the most effective ways to protect your smile. At Diamond Dental Arts, we use checkups to look for early changes that are easy to treat, before they develop into bigger problems that may require more complex care.
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Many dental issues begin quietly. A cavity may start between teeth where you cannot see it. Gum disease may develop under the gum line before you feel discomfort. A regular checkup helps us identify changes early and protect your teeth and gums from long term damage.
During checkups, we review diagnostic images, often bitewing images taken between teeth, to look for early decay and changes in the supporting bone. Cavities can develop when flossing is inconsistent, when medications change, or when the body goes through hormonal shifts that affect oral health.
For many patients, a dental checkup is recommended once per year. If anything changes, such as a broken tooth, sudden sensitivity, or new discomfort, a checkup should be scheduled sooner. In many cases, the checkup can be completed during the same visit as a cleaning, but it can also be scheduled on its own if needed.
A checkup combines imaging review and a clinical exam. We look closely at your teeth for early cavities, fractures, worn areas, and failing restorations such as fillings or crowns. We also evaluate your gums for inflammation and early gum disease. Our goal is to keep your mouth stable and healthy and to help you avoid painful emergencies.
A dental checkup should not be painful. The visit is focused on evaluation, imaging review, and a clinical exam. If a sensitive area exists, we approach it gently and explain what we are seeing. The purpose of the checkup is to guide you toward your healthiest state with clarity and comfort.
The total time depends on what your mouth needs. Every tooth is different, and existing restorations such as crowns or fillings can change over time. That is why checkups are important even when everything feels fine.
Many checkups take about one hour when imaging, evaluation, and cleaning are completed in the same visit. If the appointment is only for a checkup, the time may be shorter depending on your situation. If new findings appear, we take the time needed to explain options and next steps.
A typical checkup includes imaging as needed based on the timing of your last images. Many patients benefit from updated images once per year. We then complete a clinical exam and review your teeth and gums. Gum measurements are often taken to evaluate gum health and identify early signs of disease.
If anything is found, we explain it clearly and review treatment options. In many visits, a cleaning is completed as well, followed by fluoride application to help reduce cavity risk. When cleaning and checkup are combined, patients receive a thorough visit that supports prevention and early detection.
During a checkup, we evaluate the health of your teeth, gums, and supporting structures. We also perform an oral cancer screening and assess head and neck areas that may need attention. If an issue is present, our role is to explain what it means, answer questions, and guide you through the next steps.
Yes. When patients skip routine dental visits for long periods, small concerns can become larger cavities, infections, or broken teeth that require more involved treatment. Regular checkups allow us to catch minor issues early so you can avoid tooth loss and reduce the need for extensive procedures.
Scheduling is simple. You can call or text our office to set up your visit. You may also check if your next checkup is already planned within your yearly care schedule. A routine checkup does not have to happen on the same day as your cleaning, but combining them is often convenient.
Before you leave your appointment, we can also help schedule your next visit and provide reminders as the date approaches. Staying consistent with checkups is one of the best ways to protect your smile.
Questions or ready to schedule, call 941 637 0101
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