What is in a dental check-up?
Dental check-ups are not only about the teeth! During a dental check up an oral cancer screening and gum health exam is carried out. Often we will also examine the muscles and joints in your jaws as well!
At Meath Dental Clinic we will thoroughly check your teeth and gums are healthy and review any concerns you might have. A dental plan will also be made for you if required.
Many times, dental check-ups are free! How is it free??? There are several different ways!
PRSI dental check-up: Have you been making contributions to your PRSI? Finally put those contributions to good use! To see if you qualify, give us a call and with your permission we can use your PPS number to see if you qualify for a free PRSI exam. It is that easy to get a free dental check up if eligible!
Insurance: Many insurance policies cover exam and cleans twice per year. An example of this is DeCare insurance, for whom we are a preferred provider! If you have DeCare insurance, just give us a call with your policy number and your exam and cleaning are completely free!
With other insurance providers such as Laya, VHI, Irish Health etc, payment is required however we provide all the necessary paperwork to have this claimed back.
Please check with your insurance provider as there are many different policies!
Prevention is key! Many restorative procedures can be avoided by regular 6 month check-ups. An example is a small cavity. If the small cavity is caught early enough, a simple tooth filling can be used to restore the tooth to healthy functional tooth again.
If that small cavity becomes too big, the dentist may say the tooth needs to be restored with a crown. If that big cavity irritates the nerve then a root canal treatment or tooth extraction and implant may be needed.
Another example is gum disease. If gum disease is caught early in the reversible stage (gingivitis), a regular cleaning and good home care can prevent serious long term irreversible gum disease (periodontal disease).
Prevention is always key! With regular maintenance and by following our advice you can look forward to a healthy and trouble free dental lifetime.
Answer: Most dental professionals recommend visiting the dentist for a check-up and cleaning every six months. However, this can vary depending on your oral health condition. Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention of dental problems.
Answer: A dental check-up typically involves a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. Your dentist will clean your teeth, take X-rays if necessary, and discuss your oral health with you. They will also provide recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene and address any concerns you may have.
Answer: Dental check-ups are generally painless. Modern dental techniques and equipment make the process comfortable for most patients. If you have any concerns about discomfort, feel free to discuss them with your dentist before your appointment.
Answer: Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. Early detection and treatment of dental problems can prevent more serious issues and save you money in the long run. Additionally, good oral health is linked to overall health, so regular check-ups can benefit your overall well-being.
Answer: Absolutely! Many people experience dental anxiety, and dentists understand this. There are various techniques and sedation options available to help you relax during your appointment. Discuss your concerns with your dentist, and they can recommend the best approach for you.
Answer: If you experience severe tooth pain, swelling, or bleeding, it's important to contact your dentist immediately. They can provide guidance on how to handle the situation and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. In case of a true dental emergency, you may need to visit an emergency dental clinic.
