Why Undergo a Dental Examination
It is important to see a dentist regularly as any potential dental problem may be seen before it can cause more damage to your mouth, and for suitable action or treatment to be taken.
During dental examinations:
- The dentist will check your teeth for cavities; dental decay could possibly appear as a hole underneath the enamel’s surface. If the dentist should find a hole in the tooth, he may place a filling to stop food from entering in it.
- The dentist will then check your gums and the overall general oral hygiene making sure that there are no dental problems. In order to detect gum disease early on, dentists use an extensive exploration of the gums to test the depth of the pockets around the teeth.
- The dentist will next check the soft tissues to check if there are lesions.
- The dentist may afterward take radiographs. Radiographs show any hidden decay between the teeth and the level of the bone which may show signs of periodontal disease.
- The dentist will evaluate your risk of developing oral health problems.
- The dentist will most likely discuss with you, your diet and oral hygiene habits and techniques for proper brushing and flossing.
After the dental exam, the dentists will talk about your oral health, including your risk of tooth decay, gum disease or any other oral health problems that you may possibly have. He may also discuss the preventive measures you need to take care of to improve and at the same time protect your oral health. He will also recommend the best time to schedule your follow up visit, normally every six months. If he finds out that you are at high risk for tooth decay or gum disease, he may advise for more recurring checkups.