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A routine dental check-up is the foundation of good oral health. It helps identify problems early so they can be corrected. We recommend everyone visit the dentist at least twice a year for a dental check-up and teeth cleaning. These semi-annual visits allow the dentist to thoroughly clean your teeth and remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup from hard-to-reach places, such as your gum line and crevices on your teeth. 

Benefits of Routine Dental Visits

The benefits of visiting the dentist for a routine dental check-up include:

• Detecting and preventing gum disease
• Keeping your mouth healthy and clean
• Preventing cavities and tooth decay
• Ensuring any oral conditions are treated in the initial stages before they can have a significant negative impact

Importance of Medical History

Understanding your medical history can help our dentist diagnose any underlying health issues that could be related to your oral health and affect treatment recommendations. 

Here are some common questions our doctor may ask about your medical history:

• Do you take any medications (prescription or over-the-counter)?
• Are you pregnant or planning for it in the near future?
• How often do you visit the dentist for routine cleanings?
• Have you ever had surgery on your mouth or face?
• Have you had any issues with your teeth since your last visit?
• Do you have any new concerns you would like to discuss?

Routine Oral Screening

During your visit, our dentist will carefully check your teeth, gums, and mouth to look for signs of common problems like cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, and more. Regular dental check-ups are an important way that we can prevent the potential loss of teeth due to decay or disease. 

Additionally, the purpose of regular check-ups is to identify any potential issues before they become more difficult to treat. This means that your visit to the dentist may stop you from needing more invasive treatments in the future.

In addition to the exam itself, you will likely receive a professional cleaning during this visit. This removes plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and ensures that your oral hygiene routine at home is working effectively between office visits. 

You should schedule regular dental check-ups at least twice a year for optimal oral health and wellness. If you experience any pain or discomfort in between your regular appointments, you should call our office to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Oral Cancer Screening

For patients at risk for oral or pharyngeal cancer, our dentist may recommend performing an oral cancer screening at each appointment. This exam is quick and painless. It’s performed during your routine check-ups and involves evaluating your neck, cheeks, lips, gums, tongue, throat, tissues, and teeth for any abnormalities. 

An oral cancer screening can help catch an abnormal growth before it has a chance to become more advanced, which could help save your life!

For more information, contact our Alexandria dental office at (703) 823-2848 or 5130 Duke St, Suite 8, Alexandria, VA 22304, or our Manassas dental office at (703) 479-7654 or 8608 Centreville Rd, Manassas, VA 20110.