Regular dental exams are a great method to spot oral health issues in their earliest stages. They aid in keeping possible problems from becoming serious. However, if you are unsure of what to expect during a standard dental examination, you might experience anxiety when going to the dentist near you on a regular basis. To make you feel less anxious, continue reading to understand more about what takes place during these appointments.
What is Included in a Routine Checkup?
Dental exams should be scheduled regularly for your health. While brushing and flossing can help keep your teeth clean, routine dental checkups near you can help prevent plaque buildup in difficult-to-reach areas. Your dental team can assist in determining any potential issues you might be experiencing.
Your dental staff will examine you for many different things during a check-up, including:
- A Dental Exam
Helping you maintain good dental health is the primary aim of the examination. Your dentist will evaluate your face, neck, and the area just below your lower jawline during the treatment to look for any abnormalities (lumps, bumps, or swelling) that may be a sign of other conditions such as oral cancer.
Additionally, they will thoroughly assess your mouth, teeth, and gums for indications of periodontal disease, gingivitis, and tooth decay. Your dentist will discuss any issues you’ve been having, such as toothaches, sensitivity, or aesthetic worries, and they’ll put together a customized treatment plan aimed at enhancing your dental health.
- Dental History
Your dentist will ask you about your medical background before doing an oral examination. They will inquire about any alterations in your general health, including any new drugs and ailments like diabetes, arthritis, and more. To make sure you receive the proper care, it helps to discuss your allergies, worries, and anxiety with the specialist.
- X-rays
The dentist may take x-ray images of your oral cavity during your appointment to see if there are any issues with your tooth roots. They will provide you with the appropriate set of oral care guidelines based on the test results.
- Examine Your Teeth
Your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth using a metal probe and a small mirror after the teeth cleaning treatment. In addition to making sure the gums are properly attached to the teeth, they will check for gum swelling, mouth sores, redness, and a softening of the tooth enamel. They will be able to identify the issue areas and suggest solutions as a result of this.
- Comprehensive Cleaning
Once your dentist has completed the check-up portion of the session, they will get started on the subsequent cleaning. They will carefully remove any accumulated plaque from the surface of and between your teeth, and floss them. Additionally, they will use a tooth polisher to help remove any leftover material, giving your teeth a smooth surface.
The final, and one of the most important steps, is the application of the fluoride varnish, gel, or foam for one minutes to help discourage cavities from forming.
Why are Consistent Dental Check-Ups Necessary?
Even if you maintain good dental hygiene, problems might still arise over time. The easier it is to manage and treat a condition, the earlier your dentist discovers it.
Exams at the dentist are not just for your teeth. During a routine check-up with your dentist, they may be able to detect symptoms of a disease or medical condition. These potential ailments include:
- Diabetes
- Lupus
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Your dental needs and oral health may necessitate more frequent checkups with your dentist. What may you expect from your dental examination if you have an appointment coming up?
Scheduling Your Next Dental Checkups in Sherwood Park
Your dental staff will go over the appointment’s results after finishing your examination and cleaning. This conversation may cover advice on how to maintain better oral hygiene or the development of a treatment plan for any issues discovered. You can ask any questions you may have about oral hygiene right here.
You may schedule your next appointment for six months from now, or sooner if necessary, depending on how your checkup went. Keep in mind that your dentist in Sherwood Park has your best interests in mind when making recommendations. If you are suffering from tooth decay and other problems, they can be avoided by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting our clinic, Aspire Smiles, regularly.