All You Need To Know About Atascadero Dentists

Getting a good dentist in Atascadero could be a hard endeavor especially when you do not know where to start from. A majority of local dental networks will give you the contacts and names of several dentists in your area and this is not an assurance that they are the best. Before making the final decision, it is always important to know the dentist you intend to choose. After narrowing your list, you should set an appointment with each of them and these are some of the factors that you should put into consideration.

a. Are you comfortable with the dentist?

After interacting with the dentist during the interview, you will get to know his or her personality. In case, you find yourself at ease around the dentist and you find that he knowledgeable enough then he or she could be the right one for you.

b. How convenient is the office location?

To check this, you can consider the level of professionalism of the staff, punctuality of the dentist when an appointment is scheduled or the packing space offered. Make sure you are comfortable with all the services that they offer before committing to more visits.

What to Expect When Visiting an Atascadero Dentist

1. Dental X-rays

At check-up visits, dental x-rays are commonly taken. They are used in revealing the height and health of the jawbone, cavities between the teeth or position of the developing teeth in children. There are several types of x-rays but the dentist usually chooses the best one depending on the individual.

2. Oral Examination

The dental hygienist could do several tasks but for advanced tasks such as cavity filling, the dentist does it himself. The dentist working on your mouth will be looking at basic oral hygiene areas such as;

a. Decay detection. Visible signs of tooth decay or if the enamel has softened will be examined by the dentist and the hygienist. This typically indicates the early stage for a tooth cavity.

b. Pocket measurements. A periodontal probe is used by your dentist in determining the health of the supporting bone and the gum. The probe will be used in measuring the pockets around the teeth.

c. Bite evaluation. The dentist checks your bite and looks for irregularities that might compromise dental health. The dentist also checks the developments and eruption patterns in the child’s teeth so that the orthodontic referrals could be done.

3. Oral Screening.

Since early detection is critical for any successful treatment of oral cancer, Atascadero dentists will screen you in every visit. These dentists will examine your lips, head, neck, mouth tissues, and other surfaces such as the tongue to see if there is any unusual symptom or sign.

4. Polishing and Scaling

Dentists recommend routine cleaning of their patient’s teeth in order to prevent periodontal diseases and maintain healthy gums. The dentist will use a specific instrument in scaling off any hardened plaque known as tartar and later polish the teeth with special paste that removes stains and polishes the enamel. A majority of people like the squeaky clean feeling in their mouths after an Atascadero dentist has cleaned their teeth.

5. Fluoride Treatment

Topical fluoride treatment is recommended for children in order to make their tooth enamel stronger especially when they are prone to cavities. This is usually done after cleaning of their teeth and the frequency will depend on the child’s risk of getting cavities. This treatment is also helpful to adults who have increased chances of getting tooth decay.

6. Sealant Application

Mostly tooth decay occurs on chewing surfaces of the back molars in children hence the dentist might recommend a sealant for the teeth. The procedures are painless and simple, and they could even be done by a hygienist. The sealant material will act as a barrier against food particles and bacteria. It will last for around five to ten years.

7. Home Care Instruction

During the visit, the dentist or dental hygienist will give you some home care tips. You will be given instructions on how to properly floss and brush your teeth. You will also be advised food to avoid and snacks that will be bad for your teeth. During your visit to the doctor, feel free to ask any question and get information on issues that you require further details.