Dental Checkup Jefferson, GA
If a patient is having a dental checkup for the first time, or if they have not been to the dentist in a while, they often find themselves wondering what a dental checkup is. During this routine appointment, a dental professional will check the smile, teeth, and gums for infection, decay, and disease, such as cavities or periodontitis (gum disease).
At some point during the checkup, they will also be given guidance on home care. This allows them to keep their smile in the best shape possible between checkups. Scheduling your checkup is as easy as calling our Life Point Dental Jefferson team in Jefferson at (706) 708-0130.
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Why Dental Checkups Are Important
Oral health is important to overall health. In addition, oral health problems could be indications of other health problems. Gum disease, for example, can affect the immune system. It is also especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it is linked to premature birth and low birth weight.
Identifying and correcting oral health issues early not only helps protect teeth but may also help reduce the risk of other health problems. Most patients should go in for a regular dental checkup once every six months.
“Oral health problems could be indications of other health problems.”
Dental Examination
The dentist will speak to the patient about their dental history. They may ask the patient about medications and illnesses, or whether they have any allergies, concerns, or anxieties. Always be honest with our dental team so they can provide the best care possible.
The dental professional will check the teeth for any signs of concern by using a small mirror to look around the mouth. During this examination, they will be looking for swelling, sores, cuts or lesions, gum recession, and tooth decay. One of the most important things they will look for is spaces between the gums and teeth called dental pockets. Dental pockets pose a risk to health and may indicate gum disease. The dental professional may recommend home care and monitoring to protect the smile.
“Always be honest with our dental team so they can provide the best care possible.”
Dental X-rays
New patients and those who have not had them done in a while will be asked to have dental X-rays taken of their mouth at their dental checkup. These X-rays are important because they allow dentists to check the roots beneath the gum line, which are otherwise inaccessible. For the X-rays, the patient will bite down on a piece of plastic that is placed between their teeth. A machine will be placed near their cheek to take the image. Their dentist will then review the image to check for any dental concerns.
“These X-rays are important for your dental team to be able to check the roots beneath your gum line, which could otherwise not be seen during a routine checkup.”
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What to Do Between Dental Visits
Keep teeth healthy between dental visits by brushing and flossing regularly. Teeth should be brushed at least twice a day with an American Dental Association-approved, soft-bristled brush.
Limit sugary foods and drinks, as these contribute to tooth decay. Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food from hard-to-reach places between teeth and around the gum line. Tartar buildup in the mouth can be reduced with good oral hygiene. Less tartar means easier dental cleanings and fewer additional dental treatments, such as fillings.
“Keep teeth healthy between dental visits by brushing and flossing regularly.”
Questions Answered on This Page
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The Difference Between a Dental Checkup and a Dental Cleaning
Many people do not realize that there is a difference between a dental checkup and a dental cleaning at all — primarily because dental cleanings often happen during a dental checkup. In reality, the two are completely different but equally important processes. A dental checkup includes a thorough examination of the patient's mouth. The dental team will take X-rays, examine existing restorations, screen for oral cancer, examine for tooth decay, and screen for gum disease.
They may then conduct a dental cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar buildup in the mouth. A dental cleaning is typically performed by a registered dental hygienist. As stated above, a dental cleaning entails the removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gum lines. However, it also includes a professional tooth polishing to get rid of plaque and surface stains.
“Many people do not realize that there is a difference between a dental checkup and a dental cleaning at all — primarily because dental cleanings often happen during a dental checkup.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it OK to go to the dentist once a year?
A. Even if you take excellent care of your teeth at home, you could have dental issues that you cannot see yourself, such as cracked teeth or tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas. Therefore, even if you are healthy, it is still a good idea to schedule a dental checkup and cleaning twice a year. If you have dental insurance, these visits are likely covered with no out-of-pocket cost to you.
Q. I do not have any symptoms. Do I still need to see a dentist?
A. You should still see a dentist for a checkup twice a year, even if you are not experiencing any dental symptoms. Removing plaque and tartar from your teeth is important for preventing tooth decay, which can lead to larger dental problems.
Q. Do I really need to floss every day?
A. Yes. Flossing can remove bacteria and plaque from places that your toothbrush cannot reach. Get in the habit of flossing every day. It only takes a couple of minutes!.
Q. Is it safe to go to the dentist when I'm pregnant?
A. Yes, it is safe to see a dentist when you are pregnant. Just be sure to tell the dentist that you are pregnant. Pregnant women should not be exposed to X-ray radiation.
Q. Why are dental X-rays necessary?
A. There are many diseases of the teeth and surrounding tissues that can only be seen with a dental X-ray. These include infections in the bone, gum disease, small areas of decay between the teeth or below fillings, and more.
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Dental Terminology
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Following through with dental checkups is how patients can ensure that their smile stays healthy and free of decay or disease. Our dental team is here to help. To schedule a dental checkup or for help with your dental questions, please call our team at 706-708-0130.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
About our business, license, and website security
- Life Point Dental Jefferson was established in .
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: Jackson County
- We serve patients from the following cities: Jefferson, Arcade, Pendergrass, Nicholson, Commerce, Hoschton, and Talmo
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