Changing Lives With FULL MOUTH DENTAL IMPLANTS at a price that you can afford!
What We Look For Specifically During Dental Exams
Posted on 11/15/2024 by The Implant Center at Comprehensive Dental
You know the drill: twice-yearly dental exams are crucial for maintaining good oral health. But have you ever wondered what exactly your dentist is looking for during those checkups? It goes far beyond just a quick peek at your teeth!
During a dental exam, your dentist is like a detective, carefully examining your mouth for clues about your overall health. They're not just looking for cavities; they're also checking for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other potential problems.
Here's a breakdown of what your dentist is specifically looking for during your next dental exam:
Teeth and Gums
•
Cavities: This is probably the most well-known thing dentists check for. Your dentist will use a small mirror and explorer tool to examine each tooth for signs of decay.
•
Gum disease: This is an infection of the gums that can damage the tissues and bones that support your teeth. Your dentist will check for redness, swelling, and bleeding in your gums, as well as measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.
•
Tooth wear: Over time, teeth can wear down due to grinding, clenching, or acidic foods. Your dentist will assess the amount of wear on your teeth and discuss treatment options if necessary.
•
Sensitivity: If you've been experiencing tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets, your dentist will try to identify the cause and recommend ways to manage it.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can develop anywhere in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums. It's important to catch it early, when treatment is most effective. During your exam, your dentist will visually inspect your mouth and feel for any lumps or abnormalities.
Other Important Factors
•
Bite and occlusion: Your dentist will check how your upper and lower teeth fit together when you bite down. This affects how you chew and can contribute to jaw problems.
•
Existing restorations: Your dentist will examine any fillings, crowns, or other dental work you have to ensure they are in good condition and functioning properly.
•
Overall oral hygiene: Your dentist will assess how well you are taking care of your teeth and gums based on the presence of plaque and tartar.
Prevention is Key
Dental exams are not just about identifying problems; they're also about preventing them. By catching issues early, your dentist can help you avoid more serious and costly dental problems down the road.
Regular checkups also allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and provide personalized recommendations for maintaining a healthy smile. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!
So, the next time you sit in the dentist's chair for your exam, remember that they're not just looking for cavities. They're conducting a thorough investigation of your oral health to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.
About Us | Dental Implants Lincoln Park NJ Dr. Rana and the members of our team are dedicated to serving our community with advanced treatments and comprehensive education. The Implant Center at Comprehensive Dental, 166 Main St, 2nd Floor, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035 ^ (973) 633-5666 ^ ranadental.com ^ 12/6/2024 ^ Related Phrases: dentist Lincoln Park NJ ^
You know the drill: twice-yearly dental exams are crucial for maintaining good oral health. But have you ever wondered what exactly your dentist is looking for during those checkups? It goes far beyond just a quick peek at your teeth!