If you have just arrived in the UK, you may be rather nervous about your first visit to the dentist in Harley Street for a check-up. You’d probably like to know what goes on behind the door of the beautifully restored building that is home to Harley Street Dental Clinic.
Even if you are diligent about brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day, you will still need to have regular dental check-ups to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Only your Harley Street dentist can check your mouth properly for early signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer or other dental problems.
At our dental clinic, we want to know your health history and any concerns before proceeding to treatment. Here is what to expect from our Harley Street dentist during your oral health assessment.
When you come for a check-up, your Harley Street dentist will carefully examine your teeth for decay, using a metal probe and a small mirror with an angled handle. Your dentist will also check how your teeth bite together and whether you have problems with tooth grinding. We will examine your neck and the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of oral cancer, especially if you are age 35 or older. If you cannot be quite sure when you last had a screening, ask your Harley Street dentist to repeat the screening during your dental check-up. Patients at high risk (such as smokers) are advised to have regular screenings every month.
During your check-up, we may need to take x-rays or tooth impressions to be able to take a closer look at the health of your teeth. We will also check your gums for signs of disease. If your gums bleed easily when you brush your teeth, this is a sign of gum disease. Throughout your oral health assessment, we will make a detailed record of the state of all your existing fillings and check for signs of fractures or ledges on your teeth. We will also check all existing crowns, veneers, bridges or implants for fit, appearance and function.
If you come for regular check-ups there’s a good chance you can hang onto your natural teeth until the end of your life.