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What Should I Expect if It Has Been Years Since My Last Dental Appointment?

May 8, 2020

Filed under: Uncategorized — docmark @ 7:47 pm
a young woman wearing a lavender sweater and speaking to her dentist in Myrtle Beach

If it has been a while since your last dental appointment, you may be feeling a bit nervous, overwhelmed, or unsure about what to expect. If you’re worried that you might face judgment because of the status of your oral health, rest assured that your dentist in Myrtle Beach will go out of his way to make you feel warm and welcome during your visit. Whether it has been one year or 10, making the decision to receive proper dental care is the first step to improving your oral health. So, what will this first visit look like? Let’s find out.  

You’ll Receive a Full Dental Checkup and Cleaning

Don’t be surprised if this visit takes a bit longer than future visits. Why? Because your dentist and dental hygienist will need additional time to exam your oral cavity and perform a thorough cleaning. If this is your first time visiting your new dentist in Myrtle Beach, your initial appointment will be complimentary. You will likely need dental X-rays taken of your oral and facial structure, and your dentist will need ample time to visually examine your smile as well as perform an oral cancer screening. Your hygienist will also need to chart your gum pockets and remove plaque and tartar accumulations from your teeth and gum line.

Dental X-Rays Will Be Required

To better understand what is going on below the surface of your gum line, dental X-rays will be taken. Since problems don’t only exist on the surface, it is imperative that your dentist has a clear understanding of your entire oral structure, no matter if current problems exist or not. Your dental team will use an intraoral camera to capture quick, clear, high-resolution images of your smile. These will be used throughout your time as a patient and help to diagnose any particular dental problems along the way.

Your Gums May Bleed a Little

If you haven’t spent your time flossing between your teeth, don’t be surprised if your gums begin to bleed, as this is common. During the cleaning portion of your visit, your dental hygienist will use floss to remove any bacteria from in-between your teeth, and the pressure placed onto your soft oral tissues will likely cause them to bleed just a little. While one of the symptoms associated with gum disease is bleeding, this does not mean that you necessarily have gingivitis (early stage of periodontal “gum” disease). However, if you want to combat the possibility of it developing, it is advised that you floss and rinse your mouth with an antimicrobial mouthwash to eliminate harmful bacteria.  

When calling to schedule your appointment, make sure you ask any necessary questions or have dental staff address your concerns in preparation for your visit. You might even visit your dentist’s website to learn more about what to expect and complete any forms ahead of time.

About the Author
As a dental professional for more than 40 years, Dr. Jack Markusen served in the United States Air Force in 1968 before being honorably discharged in 1971. Attending the Medical University of South Carolina, School of Dentistry, he graduated in 1976. Since that time, he has been helping residents of Myrtle Beach and its surrounding communities achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. No matter if it has been six months or five years since an individual’s last visit, he and his team always provide a judgment-free zone to ensure patients feel welcome, safe, and comfortable while working toward improved oral health. If you need dental care but are uncertain of what to expect, visit our website or call (843) 916-0990.