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Jun
Dental Check-ups: How They Boost Your Oral Health
Regular dental check-ups are the foundation of good oral care to keep your smile in optimal health. If you’re not seeing your dentist regularly for routine check-ups, you’re missing out on a key component of long-term oral health. Through the following FAQs, Dr. Andy Stein from Stein Family Dentistry in Spokane, Washington, explains the importance of dental health check-ups to your oral care.
Why do routine check-ups matter?
Your smile is priceless! Through routine check-ups and cleanings, you can preserve its health and beauty for years. Routine dental visits provide an opportunity for Dr. Stein to spot and resolve problems early when they’re less costly to treat. This keeps small problems from growing into major issues later on. Common problems like decay and gum disease can even be prevented through regular check-ups and cleanings to boost your oral health over the long haul. Â
How often should I have a check-up and cleaning?Â
To start with, we recommend seeing your dentist every six months for a check-up and cleaning. At this time, we’ll evaluate your oral health and let you know if more frequent visits are needed.
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New Patients: (509) 463-1770 | Existing Patients: (509) 747-5586
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My teeth feel fine, but do I still need to see a dentist?
Absolutely! Many oral problems don’t manifest symptoms in their early stages, which makes them easy to miss. By the time you feel pain or discomfort, you may already have damage to your gums or teeth. Your dentist is trained to detect problems in the making or even prevent them altogether, to protect your smile. Consistent dental care is key to a healthy mouth and a beautiful smile.Â
What happens during a dental check-up?
Generally, dental check-ups consist of:
- A thorough inspection of your gums and teeth for signs of irregularities
- Professional cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth
- X-rays (once a year) to detect signs of hidden issues
- Oral cancer screening
- Brushing and/or flossing tips, if needed, to improve your oral healthÂ
You’ll leave our office with a brighter, healthier smile!
How long does a check-up and cleaning take?
On average, dental check-ups and cleanings take between 45 and 60 minutes to complete. If X-rays are needed, expect a longer visit. You should also plan for a longer visit if you’ve not been to the dentist in some time, as it may take longer to clean your teeth.
What are some signs that it’s time to see my dentist?
Many dental issues can be avoided through routine dental care. If you’ve neglected dental visits and are experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to see your Spokane, WA dentist:
- Tooth or gum pain
- Painful chewing
- Chronic bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Extreme tooth sensitivityÂ
- Black spots or visible signs of decay on your teeth
Where can I go for a dental health check-up near me?
Spokane, WA, residents can visit Stein Family Dentistry for routine check-ups and cleanings, as well as any other dental needs. To schedule an appointment, contact Dr. Andy Stein at (509) 463-1770.Â
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Dr. Andy Stein is the owner and Lead Dentist of Stein Family Dentistry. He graduated from Oregon Institute of Technology with a Degree in Biology and Business, received his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry from the Oregon Health Science University, and completed his general practice residency program at the Veterans Affairs Hospital in Salt Lake City. He worked for a community health center for three years, developing his skills in and passion for dentistry.
Dr. Stein is a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Frank Spear Study Club. He was an active leader in the Southern Oregon Dental Society before relocating to Spokane. He is very enthusiastic about continuing education.