What Dr. Sayeed checks at every visit
A checkup looks at much more than cavities.
Teeth
Decay, cracks, worn or loose fillings and crowns, and signs of grinding.
Gums
Bleeding, receding gums and pockets that point to gum disease.
Mouth and throat
An oral cancer screening of the tongue, cheeks, palate and throat.
Bite and jaw
How your teeth meet, and any clicking or pain in the jaw joint.
X-rays when due
Digital X-rays show decay between teeth and problems at the roots.
Your questions
Anything that worries you, from sensitivity to the look of your smile.
What happens at a checkup
- Your update. Any changes to your health or medicines, and anything you have noticed.
- Cleaning. Most checkups are booked with a teeth cleaning in the same visit.
- The exam. Dr. Sayeed checks your teeth, gums, mouth and bite, with X-rays if they are due.
- What he found. He shows you anything that needs attention and explains your options and costs.
A checkup with a cleaning usually takes about an hour.
How often should you go to the dentist?
Every six months suits most adults and teens. Some people with healthy teeth and gums can go once a year; people with gum disease or a lot of dental work may need to come more often.
How often do you need dental X-rays?
It depends on your risk of decay. Many patients have bitewing X-rays once a year and a full set every few years. Dr. Sayeed only takes the X-rays you need.
How much does a dental checkup cost?
A checkup is a short, simple visit, and you know the cost before it starts.
- Insurance: most plans cover checkups, cleanings and routine X-rays, often in full. We work with CSEA and Kingston Trust Fund plans and most PPO plans, and check your benefits before your visit.
- New patient? Read what to expect at your first visit and what to bring.
Dental checkup questions
Patients come to us from Kingston, Port Ewen, Lake Katrine, Hurley, Saugerties, Woodstock and across Ulster County.
What is the difference between a checkup and a cleaning?
A cleaning removes tartar and stains. A checkup is the dentist’s exam of your teeth, gums and mouth. Most visits include both.
What is an oral cancer screening?
A quick, painless check of your tongue, cheeks, gums and throat for any unusual patches or lumps. It is part of every checkup here.
Do I need a checkup if nothing hurts?
Yes. Cavities and gum disease usually don’t hurt until they are advanced, and catching them early keeps treatment small.
Do you do checkups for young children?
Kingston Smiles NY mainly sees adults and teens aged 15 and over. For a younger child, call us and we’ll help you decide whether to see us or a children’s dentist.
