Your oral health is essential to your overall health and well-being. Seeing a dentist for a dental exam is something you should do every six months to one year.
You can expect to see a dental hygienist for a cleaning at the start of your appointment. Afterward, the dentist will check your teeth and gums for a variety of potential issues ranging from bleeding gums to periodontal diseases. Your exam may also involve taking an X-ray and discussing your medical history.
What Does a Dental Hygienist Do?
Taking care of your oral health is essential for overall wellness. Regular dental checkups and cleanings with a dental hygienist can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
During a cleaning, which is the first part of a dental appointment, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup, polish your teeth, and provide tips and advice for proper at-home care.
By following their guidance, you can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
What Is Included in a Basic Dental Exam?
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. During these visits, you can expect your dental hygienist to perform a thorough cleaning to remove any plaque buildup that may have accumulated on your teeth. This sticky film of bacteria can lead to a number of oral health problems, including cavities and gum disease.
In addition to the cleaning, they may also take X-rays of your teeth to assess their overall health. Depending on your individual needs, these X-rays may be taken on certain visits or more frequently if your teeth are in poor condition.
Finally, your dentist will perform an exam of your teeth and mouth to check for any signs of oral health problems. This is an important step in protecting your teeth, gums, and the surrounding muscles and bones that are responsible for your ability to smile, speak, and chew.
What Problems Does a Dentist Check For?
Regular dental appointments are an important part of maintaining good oral and overall health. During these exams, your dentist will carefully inspect your mouth to identify any issues that may not be immediately visible to the naked eye. Here are some of the things that your dentist may check for during your appointment:
Signs of damage, decay, or missing teeth. Your dentist will examine each tooth to assess its condition and look for any signs of decay or damage. If there are any missing teeth, your dentist may recommend replacement options such as dental implants or bridges.
Early signs of cavities. Cavities can be difficult to detect in their early stages, but your dentist will be able to identify any areas of concern and recommend appropriate treatment.
Gum disease. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your gums, looking for signs of inflammation, periodontal pockets, or other signs of gum disease. If necessary, they may recommend a scaling and root planing procedure to remove built-up plaque and tartar.
Previous dental work. Your dentist will also examine any previous dental work you may have had, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, to check that they are still functioning properly.
Mouth and throat cancer. During your exam, your dentist will check for any signs of mouth or throat cancer, such as white lesions or blocked salivary glands. Early detection is key to successful treatment, so it’s important to attend regular checkups.
Teeth position and bite. Your dentist will assess the position of your teeth and how they fit together when you bite down. If there are any issues, they may recommend orthodontic treatment to improve your bite.
Teeth grinding. Your dentist will also look for signs that you may be clenching or grinding your teeth. This can cause headaches, jaw pain, and even tooth loss over time.
Tongue and mouth health. Your dentist will check the overall health of your tongue, roof, and floor of the mouth, looking for signs of inflammation or bleeding.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) health. The TMJ joint is responsible for connecting the jawbone to the skull. Your dentist will evaluate its health and function, looking for any signs of disorders that can cause pain or tenderness.
Bone health. Finally, your dentist will assess the condition of the bones in your face, jaw, and around your mouth, checking that they are healthy and functioning properly.
Prioritize Your Dental Health
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home and scheduling regular dental checkups, you can help prevent problems and maintain the health and function of your smile.Our team at West Metro Dental is ready to help answer any questions you may have. Contact us and book an appointment and prioritize your dental health.
