Current Patients: 434-977-3939
New Patients: 855-599-5581
New Patients: 855-599-5581
Maintaining regular visits to your dentist in Charlottesville is a crucial part of having a healthy mouth and bright white teeth. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist every six months. However, we understand that some patients may be worried or anxious about their visits, especially if they don’t know what to expect. To help, let’s break down what happens at dental visits.
Whether it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist in Charlottesville or you regularly keep with your appointments every six months, the first thing you’ll most likely do at your check up is answer some health history questions. These questions will of course focus on your oral health and may include inquiries about any pain or sensitivity or if you may be interested in improving your smile with cosmetic dentistry. Additionally, your dental team will want to get information about your overall health, including any medications, health history, and concerns. Knowing your overall health is key to providing customized care designed just for you.
Even though appointments can vary from office to office, many times a cleaning will be the next step in your visit. A dental hygienist will use safe and effective instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth. This is a methodical process and may take the most time, however, it’s incredibly important. Even if you take excellent care of your teeth at home and brush and floss every day, tartar can still accumulate, and it can only be removed by your dental team. If it’s not removed, it can lead to some serious problems.
After a thorough cleaning, your hygienist will use a soft rubber polisher and special paste to polish off your teeth. This step will remove any additional plaque and can even help remove surface stains from teeth.
If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist in Charlottesville, you will probably have some dental x-rays taken. It’s also common to get these x-rays done at least once a year or if there’s a suspected problem. Dental x-rays are safe and, thanks to advanced technology, only emit very low doses of radiation.
When it’s time to see your dentist, they’ll begin by looking at any areas your hygienist may have concerns about. Then, they’ll perform a thorough examination of your teeth, looking for decay or cavities. But the exam doesn’t stop there. Your dentist will also look at your gums and other areas of your mouth for any signs of disease as well as your jaw and bite.
Knowing what to expect at your dental appointments can ease any anxieties you may have as well as keep you informed every step of the way.
Dr. Kayton and all of his wonderful staff are friendly, professional, and competent. I’ve sent friends and family to them for years.
Great, pain-free dentistry, and a wonderful group of people! My teeth and gums are in better shape than they were when I was far younger, thanks to the great teamwork of Dr. Kayton and his outstanding dental technicians! Two thumbs up!
Excellent visit as always!
Dr. Kayton and his team took good care of me and did a great job. I have my beautiful smile back!
What a great experience. It’s always difficult to find a good dentist when you move to a new area. I look forward to my next visit.
Prompt, congenial, well organized, professional, and patient friendly.
Dr. Kayton and his staff are professional, friendly, and caring people. Every experience with them has been superb. I highly recommend this practice.
I completely trusted Dr. Kayton. He offers the highest tech equipment, has the nicest staff and takes the time to make sure you understand his evaluation.
Painless dentistry. Dedicated and compassionate staff. Efficient. The most complicated dental work I have had has been done here; also the most pleasant and painless.
