Life gets busy, and for many people, dental visits can fall off the radar. Whether it’s been a year or several since your last appointment, you might feel nervous or even embarrassed about returning to the dentist. The good news is, you’re not alone, and your dental team is more focused on helping you move forward than judging your past. Here’s what you can realistically expect at your next dental visit if it’s been a while.
A Warm, Judgment-Free Welcome
First and foremost, your dental team understands that life happens. Whether your absence was due to anxiety, financial concerns, or simply forgetting, most dental professionals are trained to approach lapsed visits with compassion, not criticism. Their goal is to get your oral health back on track and make you feel comfortable throughout the process.
A Thorough Medical and Dental History Review
Be prepared to update your medical history, even if you’ve been to the same office before. Your dentist will want to know about any medications you’re taking, new health conditions, or changes in your overall wellness. Many systemic health issues, like diabetes or heart disease, can affect your oral health and vice versa.
A Comprehensive Oral Exam
If it’s been more than a year since your last checkup, your dentist will likely perform a full oral examination. This includes:
- Checking your teeth for decay or damage.
- Assessing your gums for signs of gum disease.
- Examining your bite, jaw, and soft tissues for abnormalities.
- Performing an oral cancer screening.
Depending on how long it’s been, your dentist may also order a new set of X-rays to detect issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth.
A Professional Cleaning
Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque and tartar can build up over time, especially in hard-to-reach places. A dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning to remove this buildup and polish your teeth. If it’s been a while, this cleaning may take longer than usual, and your gums may feel tender or bleed slightly. That’s normal and usually resolves with regular care.
In some cases, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing if gum disease is present. This targets bacteria below the gumline and helps prevent further damage.
A Conversation About Your Next Steps
After your exam and cleaning, your dentist will discuss your oral health status and any recommended treatments. This could range from fillings to more extensive work like crowns or periodontal therapy, depending on what they find. They’ll help you prioritize what needs attention first and work with you on a plan that fits your timeline and budget.
It’s never too late to take charge of your dental health. The longer you wait, the more likely minor issues can turn into major ones. The important thing is that you’re making the effort to return now. With each visit, your comfort will grow, and your oral health will improve.
About the Author
Dr. Avery Lane graduated from the Indiana University School of Dentistry before completing a General Practice Residency at the Malcolm Randall VA Medical Center in Gainesville, FL. She has never quit learning, taking continuing education courses and maintaining memberships in organizations including the American Dental Association, the Colorado Dental Association, and Spear Education. Been a while since your last dental visit? Dr. Lane and our team will welcome you with compassion and no judgement. Schedule your appointment online or call (719) 634-3204.