As you get older, you may have dentures or dental implants. These dentures and implants need to be checked by your dentist. If you take medicine that makes your mouth dry, or makes your gums grow, you need to have a dentist take a close look.
A check up can include some or all of these procedures:
Your dentist looks for gum disease, cavities, loose fillings, broken teeth, infection, cancer and signs of other problems that could affect your general health. Many small problems can be caught before they get big. Many small problems can be treated right away.
Cleaning
There are two parts to cleaning. First, your dentist (or the dental hygienist) scrapes away tartar that could cause gum disease. Then, a member of the dental team polishes your teeth.
Advice
When your dentist is finished the check-up, you will be able to ask questions and seek advice. Tell your dentist:
Maintenance
If you have a bridge, denture, or implant, a check up is a good opportunity to ask your dentist to make sure it's in good shape. Check-ups may seem expensive, particularly if you are on a fixed income. However, many dental practices offer convenient payment plans. If you are covered by a dental benefit plan, your dentist can help you determine the extent of your coverage before you start treatment.
While managing health care expenses is an economic reality for many pensioners, it is important to remember that in the long run, check-ups cost much less than waiting until you have a serious dental problem. Regular preventive dental care and maintenance are always less expensive than treatment. A regular check up, along with daily brushing and flossing, is the most important thing you can do to preserve your dental health.
