You may have heard our team at Chinook Village Dental use the term “recall exam” when scheduling your next visit. You might wonder what exactly that means and why it’s a regular part of your dental care routine.
A dental recall exam is the name for your regular dental check-up and professional cleaning. These appointments are how your dental team helps you maintain a healthy smile and checks for changes to your dental health
The Purpose of a Recall Exam
Think of a recall exam as a routine maintenance appointment for your teeth and gums. These proactive visits are important for checking on and maintaining your oral health. The goal is to catch any potential issues before they become bigger problems.
Dental recall exams help your dental team keep a continuous record of your oral health. This helps them track changes over time and adjust your care plan as needed.
What to Expect at Your Recall Appointment
Your recall visit is usually a straightforward and comfortable experience. It’s focused on a professional cleaning and a thorough check of your mouth.
A Professional Cleaning
Your appointment typically starts with a cleaning from a dental hygienist. They use special tools to gently remove hardened plaque known as tartar from your teeth. This is a type of buildup that regular brushing and flossing at home cannot remove.
After the tartar is cleared, your hygienist will polish your teeth to help remove surface stains. They will also floss between your teeth to clean those hard-to-reach spots. This leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
A Check of Your Teeth & Gums
After your cleaning, your dentist will perform a dental exam. They’ll look for early signs of common dental issues, such as cavities or gum inflammation (gingivitis). They’ll also check any existing fillings or crowns to make sure they’re in good condition.
Regular checkups help your dentist spot potential concerns early, while they’re still simple to detect. This makes dental recall exams an important part of good preventive care.
An Oral Health Screen
A dental recall exam includes checking your tongue, gums, and the other soft tissues in your mouth for potential issues—including serious ones like oral cancer. This is a standard and important step in monitoring your overall oral health.
Recall Exam vs. Comprehensive Exam
It is helpful to know the difference between a recall exam and a comprehensive exam. While both are important for your oral health, they serve different purposes. Your dental journey may include both types of appointments.
The Recall Exam
This is your regular check-up. It focuses on maintaining your oral health and monitoring any changes since your last visit. Think of it as an ongoing conversation about your smile.
The Comprehensive Exam
This is a more detailed and in-depth evaluation of your entire mouth. It’s often done when you are a new patient or if it has been several years since your last dental visit. This exam establishes a baseline for your future care.
During a comprehensive dental exam, your dental team will often take a full set of X-rays and perform a detailed evaluation of each tooth and your gums.
How Often You Need a Recall Exam
The recommended frequency for dental recall exams depends on your dental health situation.
For many people, a visit every six months is typically enough to maintain good oral health. However, depending on your needs, your dentist might suggest visits more or less often. This could mean a schedule of every three, nine, or twelve months.
Factors that can influence your schedule include your history of cavities, gum health, and overall health. The goal is to provide the right amount of care to keep your smile healthy. Your dental team will work with you to find a rhythm that works.
Why These Regular Visits Matter
Staying on top of your recall exams is one of the simplest ways to protect your smile and your health.
- Prevent Future Problems: Catching a small cavity early is much simpler—and often less costly—than treating a larger issue down the road.
- Maintain Healthy Gums: Professional cleanings are key to managing plaque and preventing periodontal (gum) disease, which can protect your teeth and support your overall health.
- Keep Your Smile Bright: Regular cleanings help remove surface stains from coffee, tea, or food, keeping your teeth looking great.
- Get Personalized Advice: Your recall visit is a great time to ask questions about your home care routine, from brushing techniques to flossing tips.
A dental recall exam is a simple, positive way to keep your smile healthy for years to come. If you’re looking for a dentist in Calgary, AB, our team at Chinook Village Dental is available to support your routine dental care needs. Contact us to schedule your next appointment.
