Dental check-up Old Town Toronto

We all know we should go to the dentist regularly, but life gets busy and dental appointments get pushed to the back burner. Maybe you’re putting it off because of a busy schedule, financial constraints or maybe a little dental anxiety. Whatever the reason, putting off your dental check up in Old Town Toronto can cost you more in the long run – in terms of your oral health and your wallet.

At Market Dental Centre, we’ve seen how regular dental check ups prevent small problems from becoming big ones. Located in the heart of Old Town Toronto, our practice focuses on preventive care that keeps your smile healthy while saving you time, discomfort and expense down the road.

What happens during a dental check up? Many patients aren’t entirely sure which can contribute to unnecessary anxiety. A typical check up at our practice includes several key components, all designed to keep your mouth healthy and catch any potential problems early.

The appointment starts with a chat. We’ll ask about any issues you’ve noticed – sensitivity, pain, changes in appearance – and update your medical history if needed. Medications or health conditions can impact your oral health so keeping this information current helps us provide safer and more effective care.

Next comes the cleaning performed by one of our skilled hygienists. Even the most diligent home care can’t remove all plaque and tartar, especially in hard to reach areas. Our hygienists use specialized instruments to gently remove these deposits, polish your teeth and floss between each tooth. Many patients comment on how fresh and clean their mouth feels after this professional cleaning – it’s a feeling you can’t get at home.

The exam follows where we check each tooth for cavities, evaluate your gums for inflammation or recession and assess existing dental work like fillings and crowns to make sure they’re in good condition. We also check your bite alignment and jaw function to look for signs of grinding or TMJ disorders. Oral cancer screening is another component of every check up at Market Dental Centre. This quick and painless exam checks your lips, tongue, throat and mouth tissues for any abnormal areas. Early detection is crucial for oral cancer and this routine screening could be life saving.

Digital X-rays may be necessary, usually once a year or as needed based on your oral health history. These images allow us to see problems that can’t be seen with the naked eye, such as decay between teeth, infections at the root tips or bone loss around teeth. Our digital technology uses much less radiation than traditional X-rays and provides better image quality.

After the exam, we’ll go over our findings with you and show you when possible. If we’ve found any concerns we’ll explain what we’re seeing, answer your questions and outline treatment options if necessary. This collaborative approach means you’re always informed and involved in your dental care.

Many patients ask how often they should come in for check ups. While the standard recommendation is every six months, this interval may vary based on your individual needs. Patients with great oral health and low risk factors might do well with annual visits, while those with conditions like gum disease, frequent decay or who smoke might need more frequent appointments every three or four months.

The historic charm of Old Town Toronto is the perfect backdrop for dental care that combines tradition with modernity. Just as the neighbourhood preserves its heritage while embracing urban life, our approach blends time honoured principles of thorough personalized care with technology and current best practices.

Costs are always a consideration in dental care. Many patients wonder if check ups are worth it when nothing seems wrong. The economic reality is clear: preventive care is always less expensive than restorative care. A small cavity caught early requires a simple filling, while the same decay left untreated might need a root canal and crown – treatments that cost much more and require more appointments.

Dental insurance usually covers preventive services at a higher percentage than restorative procedures, which is the same principle. Most plans cover 80-100% of routine check ups and cleanings, as these services help avoid more costly treatments later. Our administrative team at Market Dental Centre works with patients to maximize their insurance benefits and find payment solutions that fit their budget. Many patients who come in for check ups also ask about Wisdom Teeth during their appointments. These third molars can be troublesome and regular exams allow us to monitor their development and recommend extraction if necessary. This proactive approach prevents the pain and complications that arise when wisdom teeth are ignored until they cause problems.

Children benefit greatly from establishing a check up routine early in life. Beyond maintaining their oral health, these positive early experiences help them develop comfort with dental visits and understand the importance of oral care. At Market Dental Centre we go to special care to make sure young patients have a pleasant, age appropriate experience that sets the stage for lifelong oral health.

Dental anxiety prevents many people from coming in for check ups. If you’re anxious about dental visits you’re not alone – studies suggest up to 20% of adults experience significant dental anxiety. Our team understands these feelings and takes several approaches to help anxious patients feel more comfortable. From thorough explanations that remove the fear of the unknown to creating a relaxed, unhurried environment we try to make each visit as comfortable as possible. For those with more severe anxiety we can discuss other options to help you get the care you need.

The connection between oral health and overall wellness has become more evident in recent years. Research links gum disease to serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and pregnancy complications. Regular dental check ups help manage these risks by keeping the gums healthy and addressing inflammation before it contributes to systemic health problems.

Technology has improved the check up experience. At Market Dental Centre we use intraoral cameras so you can see exactly what we see inside your mouth. Digital X-rays provide immediate images with much less radiation exposure than traditional films. These advancements make diagnosis more accurate and involve you more in your oral health.

Our practice location in Old Town Toronto offers the perfect blend of convenience and ambiance. The historic neighborhood is more relaxed and personable than a medical building. Many patients tell us they enjoy combining their check ups with the character and amenities of this unique downtown area.

Ultimately regular dental check ups are an investment in both your health and your quality of life. Good oral health preserves your natural teeth, prevents pain and complications and supports your overall wellness. It also gives you the confidence of a healthy smile for personal and professional interactions. Book your appointment today at Market Dental Centre if it’s been a while since your last check up. We’ll take great care of you in a comfortable setting. Your smile is worth only the best.