Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. During these appointments, your dentist can identify potential dental issues and offer recommendations to prevent them. They also provide treatment for any oral problems they may find. Here are five things that happen during a dental exam:
Initial Assessment
During your first dental appointment, the doctor will ask about your medical history. This includes any underlying medical conditions, medications you are taking, and allergies. This information is important for the doctor to identify any conditions that may impact your dental health. The dentist will also ask about any dental issues you may be experiencing at the time, such as tooth sensitivity or pain.
Visual Examination
Dentists use an angled mirror attached to a metal probe to examine hidden points between and behind your teeth. The doctor checks for signs of cavities and tooth decay, such as a softening of the enamel. The visual exam also includes an assessment of your gum health, where the doctor checks for signs of gum disease, such as swelling. Your tooth doctor also measures the size of the space between your gum line and your teeth (periodontal pockets). Deep periodontal pockets may indicate gum disease. Dentists also check for abnormalities in the mouth, like unusual growths, sores, and lesions.
Oral Cancer Screening
A visual examination of the inside of your mouth can reveal signs of mouth and throat cancer. Dentists check for irregular bleeding, lesions, sores, or ulcers as signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. They also feel your neck and jaw for abnormalities, such as lumps. If any abnormalities are detected during the oral cancer exam, your dentist will refer you to a specialist for further testing.
Dental X-Rays
Dental X-rays provide your doctor with a detailed image of your teeth, jaw bones, and surrounding tissues. This helps them identify hidden issues that are hard to identify with a visual exam. A dental X-ray can help your doctor identify hard-to-find cavities between the teeth, tooth root problems like hidden abscesses, and gum infections. Other issues that are visible in X-ray results include impacted teeth, jaw issues, and bone density loss caused by gum disease.
Dental Cleaning
Doctors complete dental exams with professional cleanings to remove debris that toothbrushes may miss. During the dental cleaning, the doctor targets any areas where they observe plaque, tartar, and other deposits on the teeth. They will also assess above and below the gum line. They floss between your teeth to remove residual debris, then conclude with a spinning polisher for a smooth finish.
Book an Exam With Your Dentist Today
Regular dental exams help identify oral issues before they become serious problems. When you visit your dentist for an exam, you have the opportunity to learn how to take better care of your teeth. Preventative treatments, such as fluoride, are also offered. If any dental problems are found during the exam, you will receive immediate treatment or be scheduled for a follow-up appointment. Schedule your dental exam today to stay on top of your oral health.
