Why should I get regular dental checkups?

Dr. Jeff Bue and his team at Kennebec Dental Excellence believe in educating patients on how to care for their smile and what they can expect during their routine “recall” appointments. Knowing what to expect in a regular dental checkup in Waterville, Maine, can help put you at ease and help you relax before and during your time in the dentist’s chair.

What to expect during your appointment

When you visit our practice for your biannual dental checkup, you can expect the following:

  • Thorough teeth cleaning by our dental hygienists. The first step in a routine checkup is a thorough cleaning of the teeth, known as prophylaxis or “prophy.” During this procedure, one of our dental hygienists will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth. This helps keep the teeth healthy in between visits.
  • Comprehensive oral exam from our dentist. Additionally, during your appointment with us, Dr. Jeff Bue will conduct an oral exam to look for any signs of tooth decay or gum disease. He may also take X-rays, if necessary, to get a better look at what is going on beneath the surface of your smile
  • Fluoride treatment for extra cavity prevention. Our team can also provide additional cavity prevention through fluoride treatments that help strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of developing cavities over time
  • Application of dental sealants. Along with fluoride, our team may recommend dental sealants to improve oral health. Sealants bond to the natural tooth enamel and offer an extra layer of protection against cavities. They work best on teeth at the back of the mouth, where deep grooves and pits can provide areas for bacteria to hide and multiply to create acids that lead to cavities
  • Education on how to care for your smile. Once your regular dental checkup is completed, our dental team will educate you on the best ways to care for your smile in between visits, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques and lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing cavities or gum disease

Schedule an appointment today!

We hope this information helps give you an idea of what to expect from your regular dental checkups at Kennebec Dental Excellence.

Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about maintaining a healthy smile, and visit our team at 464 Benton Avenue in Winslow, Maine.