Four ways to better smile health through regular dental checkups

The checkup is central to preventative dentistry at the office of Centre Place Dental in Lincoln, Nebraska. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit the dentist for these checkups at least once every six months or two times per year. During these visits, our dentists, Drs. Chris and Robin Post will evaluate the health and condition of your teeth, gums, and other supportive tissues and structures. Then, our dental hygienists use their skills and training to remove highly resistant surface stains and plaque build-up or tartar from the teeth, effectively maintaining the beauty of your smile while reducing your risk of developing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. 

Read on to find out more about what to expect from your visit. 

No. 1: Technologies to support accurate diagnoses

We must understand the nature of any damage to your teeth, gums, or tissues. Only then can we get to the source of the problem to recommend a treatment plan that effectively addresses and resolves it? Our ability to detect potential issues by touch or sight is limited. So, this is where technologies like X-rays come into play. Drs Post has invested in several advanced diagnostic tools. They include digital X-rays associated with up to 80% less radiation exposure than conventional film-based radiography. We also use panoramic imaging to get a complete, 360-degree view of the teeth and the rest of the head, sinuses, and bone. Last but not least, intraoral camera technology allows us to show you real-time video of the inside of your mouth. So you can better understand any problems and how our recommendations will treat them. 

No. 2: Oral care tips 

One of the most valuable aspects of the checkup is our ability to provide customized guidance on better care for your teeth and gums at home. We can advise on good brushing and flossing techniques, as many patients may have fallen into bad habits. Notably, it is not uncommon for patients to rush through brushing and flossing. It is essential to ensure that all sides and surfaces of the teeth are clean. It would be best to brush any other areas that harbor bacteria, including the mouth’s gumline, tongue, and roof. Our team can also introduce medical-grade products and other oral care “helpers” into your hygiene routine – from antimicrobial rinses to floss threaders to clean hard-to-reach spaces (such as underneath dental bridges).

No. 3: Oral cancer screenings 

These visits are also opportunities to check for any anomalies with the face and neck tissues. Oral and pharyngeal cancers develop in the mouth and throat. They have a high “cure” rate when detected and addressed early. During your checkup, Dr. Robin or Dr. Chris will feel for any lumps, bumps, or other irregularities that could be red flags for cancer. We also work closely with patients to reduce their risk of developing these cancers. 

No. 4: Professional services to the rescue

Some oral care and preventative products are only available at the dentist’s office. They include dental sealants. From our office in Lincoln, Nebraska, we can quickly, affordably, and painlessly apply these protective coverings to decay-prone back teeth during regular checkups. Other potential preventive services include oral appliances designed to protect the teeth from damage caused by chronic teeth grinding. 

If you are due for a checkup, schedule yours today by calling Centre Place Dental at (402) 799-4977.

Share this Article