When do you need a checkup?
It's wise to have your mouth checked regularly by the dentist. After all, prevention is always better than cure! Even if you wear dentures, it's important to continue seeing your dentist. The dentist not only checks your teeth but also looks for any abnormalities in your tongue, lips, or buccal mucosa, for example. This allows the dentist to intervene promptly if necessary or refer you to an oral surgeon for further examination.
Treatment
During a periodic checkup, the dentist checks your teeth for cavities and checks whether fillings and crowns are still properly seated. They also measure the condition of your gums and examine your tongue, lips, and buccal mucosa for any abnormalities. Looking under fillings or crowns and between your teeth is not possible without X-rays. If treatment is necessary, a new appointment will usually be scheduled. The dentist can also refer you to a preventive assistant, dental hygienist, or fellow dentist.
Costs
Sometimes, in addition to a periodic checkup, it's also necessary to take photos or have tartar removed. View the rates here. Periodic checkups are not included in basic health insurance for adults. Reimbursement is provided by supplementary dental insurance.
For children up to 18 years of age, the cost of a periodic checkup is included in basic health insurance.
Alternatives
You can choose to visit the dentist only when you have symptoms. This is not recommended because tooth decay or periodontitis can remain symptom-free for a long time, but it does cause increasing damage.
Discuss with us how often you need a periodic checkup.
Source: KNMT
