When you go to the dentist, you typically know what to expect. But what goes on behind the scenes? What does a dentist really do?
Let’s look at a day in the life of a dentist, knowing that no two days are ever alike!
Most days begin with a morning staff meeting. Here, the team goes over the day’s schedule and procedures. As the dentist moves from patient to patient, here are a few key components of their day:
Professional Teeth Cleanings
Most dental visits begin with a teeth cleaning. A dentist or dental hygienist will work to remove stains, tartar, and plaque from your teeth. They use specialized tools to provide you with a thorough cleaning — beyond what your toothbrush can do at home. Regular cleanings help to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other common dental issues.
Oral Examinations
During your biannual check-ups, your dentist will complete an oral examination following your cleaning. They will assess your teeth, gums, and tongue for any potential problems and check for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues, like oral cancer. The earlier a problem is identified, the easier it is to treat!
Dental X-Rays
Your dentist will request new dental X-rays be taken every six to eighteen months. These images help to identify hidden problems, like cavities between your teeth, bone loss, and impacted wisdom teeth.
Restorative Dentistry
Dentists also take care of dental repairs on a daily basis. From filing a cavity or placing a crown to replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, we work to restore full function to your mouth.
Cosmetic Dentistry
At Maitland Ave Smile Co., we also specialize in cosmetic dentistry, which includes porcelain veneers, teeth bonding, and Invisalign. We work with our patients to determine the best approach to achieve their desired results.
Dental Surgeries
Complex dental issues may require surgery. Common dental surgeries include wisdom tooth extractions, dental implant placements, and root canals. Prior to your procedure, your dentist will go over the treatment plan and answer any questions you may have.
Patient Education
Of course, another important part of a dentist’s day is simply talking to their patients about proper dental care. Whether it’s best practices for brushing and flossing or better habits (like fewer sugary snacks or no smoking), your dentist can offer you tips and tricks for improving your oral health.
At Maitland Ave Smile Co., our team works together to provide excellent dental care to our patients.
At the end of the day, we review patient notes and ensure we have everything in place for tomorrow’s appointments. If needed, we return any patient calls or reach out to other specialists for collaboration. Our goal is always positive outcomes and optimal patient comfort!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your next appointment! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like restorative dentistry, dental anxiety, and more.