A Dentist Answers Your Commonly Asked Questions

At Fort Street Dentistry, we’ve proudly served families from throughout the area by providing friendly, attentive care that always puts the needs of our patients first. We want our patients to be partners in our mission to achieve optimal oral health, so we encourage them to ask questions about what they expect of us, and what we’d like them to do to further this mission.

In that regard, we’ve put together a few questions and answers to some of the questions patients ask:

Question: How often should I have a checkup?

Answer: Some people should visit the dentist once or twice a year for an exam and cleaning, while others may need more visits, according to the American Dental Association. Some may need to visit more often if they have medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, an eating disorder, HIV; or have a family history of tooth decay or gum disease. 

Q: Why do I need X-rays?

A: We need a full set of X-rays early on, followed by bitewing X-rays (which help us spot gum disease and cavities on surfaces and between the teeth) every year, and a full mouth series every four to five years. These allow us to keep our eyes on any changes that may occur to your teeth between visits. 

Q: My teeth and mouth feel fine. Why do I need a dentist visit?

A: Regular checkups and cleanings are the best way to prevent problems from starting. And keep in mind that threats to your oral health can be happening that can only be diagnosed by a dentist. 

Q: What happens during a dental checkup?

A: We’ll discuss your recent medical history, perform an examination, evaluate your overall oral health and possibly take X-rays. We’ll conduct an oral cancer screening, and, if indicated, check for gum disease. 

We hope we’ve answered some of your questions, but please reach out to Fort Street Dentistry if you have any other concerns or would like to schedule an appointment!