Although most of us know what we should do to keep our health intact, in today’s busy society. Oral health, one of the most important aspects of overall wellness, tends to be an area that is easily overlooked. This consideration is especially true in regards to regular dental check-ups.
Routine dental exams are the most efficient way of identifying abnormalities in the mouth and preventing potential issues from growing in size and severity. However, many people don’t understand the benefits of routine oral exams or feel anxious because they don’t know what to expect during a typical dental check-up.
The Dental Examination:
The dentist will assess the health of your teeth and gums by:
⦁ Examining the gums
⦁ Looking for signs of gum disease
⦁ Checking for loose teeth
⦁ Examining your tongue
⦁ Checking your bite
⦁ Looking for visual evidence of tooth decay
⦁ Checking for broken teeth
⦁ Checking for damaged fillings
⦁ Looking for changes in the gums covering teeth
⦁ Evaluating any dental appliance, you have
⦁ Checking the contact between your teeth
⦁ Taking X-rays
What’s included in a dental check-up?
Visit to dentist will begin your dental check-up with a teeth cleaning that includes the following
⦁ Using various tools and instruments they will remove or scrape tartar and plaque from around your gum line and the surface of your teeth
⦁ Polish your teeth
⦁ Examine any other specific findings
⦁ Take X-rays if required
After your teeth have been cleaned, your dentist will do the following:
⦁ A quick teeth check-up
⦁ Review any X-rays that may have been taken
⦁ Recommend any additional dental work you might need to maintain oral health
⦁ Discuss your overall oral health and habits
Patient’s history
Before anything is done inside your mouth your dentist will need to know about your medical history if this is your first appointment at the dental practice or, if you have been to the practice before, any changes in your health. This includes new medications, diabetes, arthritis, pregnancy, etc. It is important that your dental care team knows about any health concerns, anxieties, or allergies you may have in order to avoid incident and to make sure you get the kind of care you need.
Teeth cleaning
The first thing will do is give your teeth a thorough cleaning. It starts by scraping off built up plaque and tartar that collects above and below the gum line before flossing between and around every tooth to remove any plaque or food particles that are clinging on.
Examining the teeth
Dental x-rays
X-rays may or may not be taken during your checkup. Your dentist will consider your oral exam, dental history, and risk for developing cavities to decide how often you need X-rays.
Results and advice
After the dental exam is complete, your dentist will let you know exactly what is going on in your mouth and will advise you about next steps. Sometimes this involves scheduling another dental appointment for a procedure while other times your dentist will give you advice about what you can do at home to better your oral health
Comments