The Benefits of Going for Regular Dental Check-Ups and Examinations
Dental check-ups involve visiting a dentist regularly for a thorough mouth, gums, and teeth examination. The examination facilitates the early detection of dental problems, thus preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. This not only saves you unnecessary expenses but also prevents dental emergencies.
What to Expect When Going for a Regular Check-Up
During a routine check-up, expect the following oral healthcare services:
1. An oral exam
Your dentist and dental hygienist will perform this activity. Aside from cleaning and polishing your teeth, the hygienist will look at your gums and will only document the problem. This is because they do not have the mandate to diagnose teeth or gum issues. However, he or she will answer any question that you might have concerning your oral health. Your dentist, on the other hand, will look for any signs of dental diseases and oral cancer, diagnose any mouth problems, and give treatment recommendations.
2. Cleaning
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is recommended by dentists because it helps keep your teeth clean and promote ideal oral health. However, it cannot remove stains such as plaque and tartar. This calls for professional cleaning. With the aid of metal hand equipment, your hygienist or dentist will clean your teeth and get rid of the hardened plaque. Ultrasonic scalers are sometimes used to clean below and above the gum line.
3. Polishing
After your teeth have been cleaned, a polish containing fluoride and an abrasive substance is applied to remove stains and plaque on the teeth’s surface.
4. Treatment recommendations
If your dentist detects an oral problem during the examination, he/she will recommend the best treatment procedure for you. At times, you might be referred to another oral specialist for further diagnostic tests or advice.
5. X-rays
X-rays may not be necessary during your check-up. Factors such as your dental history and the oral exam will determine if you may or may not need one.
6. Prevention
Based on the outcome of your exam, your hygienist will give you instructions to follow when at home. This will help you maintain strong and healthy teeth.
The Benefits of Regular Check-Ups
- It betters your overall general health.
- Early detection and treatment of dental issues help maintain a healthy mouth.
- They help to avoid unnecessary expenses, pain, and emergencies.
What Is an All-Inclusive Dental Exam?
At All Care Dental, we give this type of exam to our first-time patients and regular clients. According to Dr. Yoon Kim, the procedure involves examining the neck area, head, and the entire mouth of the patient. In addition, it checks for tooth decay and the gums’ health while teaching people how to care for their gums and teeth. The exam will include the evaluation of the following parts:
1. Soft tissue
Your mouth’s soft tissues are the inside of your cheeks and lips, the roof and the floor of your mouth, and the tongue. Any spots, cuts, swellings, and lesions on these parts is an indication of an oral problem.
2. Neck and head
The head, neck, salivary glands, and the lymph nodes are examined for any tenderness or swelling, which are signs of a disease or bacterial infection.
3. Gum tissue
Red, puffy, or bleeding gums are signs of gum disease. Since the gums hold the teeth in position, it is crucial that it remains fit and healthy.
4. Teeth
An explorer is an instrument that your dentist will use to look for signs of cavities and decay on every tooth’s surface. When a decayed enamel is probed, it will feel softer compared to a healthy one. Problems related to braces, fillings, bridges, crowns, and dentures will also be addressed.
How Is a Dental Examination Beneficial to You?
The results from the test will expose any oral health issue that you may have. This creates room for treatment at an early stage, thus preventing the condition from worsening.
How to Care for Your Teeth at Home
- Brush your teeth a minimum of two times a day. To clean your teeth better, brush for not less than two minutes.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste as it helps prevent cavities and tooth decay.
- Avoid eating sugary foods. If you do, remember to brush your teeth afterward.
- Do not use your toothbrush for more than three months without replacing it.
- Remember to floss before going to bed.