Dental appointments are a vital aspect of your overall health care. If you have not had a dental exam for a while or are planning your first visit to a dentist, you can expect these things.
If you go to a particular dentist for the first time, the dentist might do a basic initial exam. It helps them determine any noticeable problems, and they will turn you over to their dental hygienist, who will do professional teeth cleaning.
If you have an immediate problem or pain, your dentist may address these problems before the cleaning. The treatment order and course depend on the overall state of your health.
The dental exam will involve a thorough oral inspection, and the dentist will check your teeth, tongue, and gums and may also order dental x-rays.
Dental X-rays
These accurate x-rays can spot trouble areas and decay that may not be evident with a cursory examination. Any decay around an old filling or between teeth can be tough to identify without x-rays. The dentist will look for any indications of gum disease, health problems with your mouth and tongue, or signs of oral cancer. They will also check whether your bite is correct, and the jaw alignment is proper.
The dentist will take a comprehensive medical and dental history before the exam and will discuss significant findings. For example, certain chronic diseases and medications can affect dental health. The dentist will ask you which medications you take.
If they find problems like gum disease or cavities, the professional will discuss the next steps. They will explain what type of dental work needs to be done and will provide options.
A dental hygienist performs professional cleanings, helping patients understand correct brushing and flossing techniques, and provides general dental health tips.
It’s normal to feel some level of anxiety about a dental exam, especially if you haven’t seen a dentist for some time or if it is your first exam. Well-established dental clinics will have state-of-the-art dental equipment and medications so you can be sure that the discomfort will be minimal.
Why Have Regular Dental Exams?
Many people think of complicated invasive dental procedures, drilling, and pain whenever a dental clinic or dentist is mentioned. It’s why they visit their dentist only when there is a severe dental problem, or they feel sudden pain or discomfort in their teeth. You can avoid all these issues with basic and regular dental care. When you visit the dental clinic for a bi-annual dental exam, the dentist will be able to diagnose and treat problems early, reducing the need for invasive dental procedures.
Consult a Proven Professional
It’s vital not to allow concerns or anxieties about dental exams to prevent you from visiting a dentist. Most dental problems are straightforward and affordable to treat if caught during the early stages. Without appropriate and timely treatment, minor dental issues like a small cavity can quickly become more complex.
In many cases, the dentist will recommend that you get a dental exam done twice a year after any initial problems are treated. Based on the severity of your dental issue, your dentist might recommend more frequent cleanings or checkups. For people with high-risk factors for periodontal disease or certain oral risks, the dental professional will often create a schedule or plan to follow.
Following a good dental hygiene routine and limiting sugary foods can help keep potential dental issues at bay. When it comes to any dental problems, prevention is always better than care. Contact your dentist for a dental exam sooner than later.
