Preventive check-ups and professional cleaning are a key part of oral health care. During the visit the teeth, gums and the mouth as a whole are examined, aiming to detect potential problems early, such as incipient decay, gingivitis, build-up of tartar or areas of inflammation. Cleaning helps to remove the bacterial plaque and tartar that cannot always be removed effectively by daily brushing.
In this way it helps to maintain healthy gums, reduce bad breath and prevent future dental problems. At the same time, personalised oral hygiene instructions are given, according to each patient's needs. They include advice on correct brushing, use of interdental aids, gum care and daily habits that help prevent decay and gingivitis.
Regular prevention is the simplest and most effective way to keep teeth and gums healthy, reducing the likelihood of more complex treatments in the future.
Fillings are used to restore teeth that are affected by decay or have suffered minor wear. The aim is to restore the function of the tooth and protect it from further damage. The material and technique are chosen according to the position of the tooth, the extent of the damage and the patient's needs.
What the visit includes
A regular check-up begins with your history and a clinical examination of the teeth, gums and oral cavity. If needed, X-rays are taken for damage that cannot be seen with the eye, such as decay between the teeth. Where needed, professional cleaning follows, together with information about the findings and the care plan.
When it is needed
- regular preventive check-ups, at a frequency set by the dentist according to the risk,
- decay or wear on the teeth,
- old fillings that have worn or broken,
- sensitivity, pain or a first visit after a long time,
- build-up of tartar and stains.
Fillings and restoration of worn teeth
The decay is removed and the tooth is restored under local anaesthesia when needed. Depending on the size of the damage, the position of the tooth and the functional demands, the appropriate material is chosen, usually composite resin (a tooth-coloured filling) or a larger restoration, such as an inlay, onlay or crown, when the destruction is extensive. The earlier decay is found, the smaller and more conservative the restoration.
Why regular check-ups make a difference
Decay and gum disease in their early stages often do not hurt. Regular check-ups allow them to be found early, when treatment is simpler, shorter and more conservative. The dentist adjusts the frequency of visits to your own needs.
Professional cleaning
The tartar that forms on teeth does not come off with brushing. Professional cleaning removes it together with surface stains and helps to prevent gingivitis. You are then given instructions for home care, tailored to you.
Duration and recovery
A check-up with cleaning is quick and needs no recovery time. After a filling with anaesthesia, the numbness wears off within a few hours, and it is best not to chew until it has passed, so that you do not bite your lip or cheek. Mild sensitivity in the first few days is normal; if it persists or your bite feels «high», contact the practice.
Who it is for and care at home
General dentistry is for all ages. At home, what helps is brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth daily and limiting sweets and sugary drinks between meals. If you would like a check-up in Thessaloniki, book an appointment at our practice.
