We’re almost halfway through the year — have you seen our dentists for a hygiene visit? The American Dental Association recommends adults visit the dentist twice a year for preventative care. By doing so, we can detect signs of oral health problems early and help you keep your smile bright and beautiful.
The Importance of Dental Checkups
Brushing, flossing and a low-sugar diet are all part of good at-home dental care, but they can’t replace regular dental checkups. Even patients who practice healthy dental habits experience plaque and tartar buildup over time. Left untreated, this can eventually lead to cavities, gingivitis and gum disease. Certain foods and beverages can also cause tooth decay and leave surface stains on your teeth that will become permanent if not promptly removed.
Not only will we thoroughly clean your teeth and gums during your appointment, we will also:
- Remove plaque and tartar
- Polish your teeth
- Examine your face, neck, jaw and mouth
- Observe your bite mechanics
- Check for signs of oral cancer
- Take dental X-rays as needed
- Evaluate any dental appliances you have, such as retainers or mouth guards
- Look for any abnormalities or changes since your last visit
Your mouth can tell us a lot about your health. You should view biannual appointments with us as important as your yearly physicals and routine bloodwork. If it’s been too long since your last dental appointment, please contact us today.
Timing Your Dentist Appointments
Most dental insurance covers the cost of hygiene visits twice a year. We can help you schedule your appointments to get the most out of your plan. Patients without dental insurance can take advantage of our in-house payment plan to get the treatment they need.
Certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors can increase your risk of oral health problems. You may need to visit us more often if:
- You’re pregnant
- You have diabetes or heart disease
- You’re being treated for cancer
- You’re HIV positive
- You smoke
After your initial appointment, our dentists can advise you on how frequently to see us. We have extended weekday hours to make visiting us easy.
You should also watch for signs that you need more immediate attention, including:
- Persistent tooth or gum pain
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Mouth sores that won’t heal
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A damaged or missing dental restoration
If your situation qualifies as a dental emergency, you may be able to see our on-call dentist right away.
Why Choose Flatrock Family Dentistry
At Flatrock Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve the highest level of health they desire. To us, your hygiene visit isn’t a quick, routine appointment. It’s a chance to discuss your oral health in full and advise you on how to maintain good habits once you leave our office.
Our dentists, hygienists and clinical assistants take the time to understand your needs and connect with you on a personal level. Whatever barriers you have to getting clean and healthy teeth, they will help you overcome them.
Contact Our Greenville Dentists
For more than 30 years, Flatrock Family Dentistry has proudly served patients in the Greenville, Five Forks and Greer communities of South Carolina. Call (864) 756-5576 to schedule your preventative care appointment with our team.