Dental exams and cleanings are essential for anyone of any age who wants to maintain or improve the state of their teeth, gums, and overall smile. Regular visits to the dentist can help prevent cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral health conditions before they become severe.
In this article we will cover the importance of visiting the dentist on a regular basis for examinations and cleanings. We will also discuss what you can expect during an appointment with your dentist so that you are prepared when it is time for your check-up.
Why Dental Exams and Cleanings Are Important
Dental exams and cleanings are important for maintaining the long-term health of your teeth and gums. Regular checkups help to detect issues early so that preventive treatments can be administered. A professional cleaning is necessary to remove plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth over time and can lead to gum diseases.
Prevention of Dental Problems
Regular dental exams and cleanings can help prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or tooth loss by keeping your mouth clean and healthy.
Early Detection of Dental Problems
Dental exams can also help detect problems in their early stages when they are easier to treat. Early detection can help prevent more serious dental problems from developing.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar
Even with regular brushing and flossing, it can be difficult to remove all the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. Professional dental cleanings can help remove the buildup and prevent gum disease.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Dental exams and cleanings help maintain good oral hygiene. Your dentist can provide you with personalized advice on how to take care of your teeth and gums.
What to Expect at a Dental Exam
A dental exam is an important part of preventive health care. It is recommended that adults and children visit the dentist or dental hygienist at least once a year for a comprehensive examination. The purpose of the exam is to detect potential problems in the mouth, such as tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer.
Review of Your Dental and Medical History
The dentist or dental hygienist will review your dental and medical history and ask you about any problems or concerns you may have. Your dental history provides important information about any previous dental procedures you may have had, such as fillings, root canals, or extractions. This information can help the dentist determine the best course of treatment for any current dental issues you may be experiencing.
Your medical history provides information about any health conditions you may have, as well as any medications you are taking. This information is important because certain health conditions and medications can affect your oral health and may require special precautions during dental procedures. If you have any allergies or sensitivities to certain materials or substances, such as latex or certain types of anesthesia, the dentist needs to be aware of this information to ensure your safety during dental procedures.
Additionally, your family history of dental problems can also provide important information about any potential genetic risk factors for dental problems.
Examination of Your Teeth and Gums
At your dental appointment, your dentist or dental hygienist will visually examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. They will check for any areas of decay on your teeth that could indicate cavities, which may appear as dark spots or holes. They will also look for signs of gum disease or periodontal disease, such as inflammation, bleeding, or receding gums.
The dentist may also check your bite alignment to ensure your teeth are properly aligned and functioning as they should.
X-Rays
X-rays may be taken to get a closer look at the condition of your teeth and bones beneath the surface of your gums. X-rays can help detect cavities that may not be visible during a visual examination, and they can show the condition of the tooth roots and surrounding bone, which can help detect issues such as gum disease or tooth decay that may be affecting the tooth roots.
X-rays can also show the condition of other oral structures such as the sinuses, which can help detect issues such as sinus infections that may be affecting your oral health.
Cleaning
During the cleaning, the hygienist or dentist will use special tools to remove any plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, focusing on areas that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush. After the plaque and tartar have been removed, the hygienist or dentist will polish your teeth using a special paste to remove surface stains and give your teeth a smooth, shiny surface. The hygienist or dentist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and ensure your teeth are thoroughly clean.
Depending on your individual needs, the hygienist or dentist may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth to help strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. They may also recommend additional treatments or procedures, such as dental sealants or deep cleaning for patients with gum disease.
Oral Cancer Screening
The dentist may perform an oral cancer screening. They will examine your lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth for any abnormal growths, bumps, or discolorations. They will also use their hands to feel for any lumps or abnormalities in your neck, jaw, and oral cavity.
If the dentist finds any suspicious areas, they may perform a biopsy to determine if the area is cancerous.
Recommendations
Based on the results of the exam and cleaning, the dentist may make recommendations for any necessary treatments or changes to your oral care routine.
Schedule Your Next Dental Exam and Cleaning at Kennmore Dental
At Kenmore Dental, we make sure our patients receive the highest quality of care. Our staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and has been trained to help you and answer any questions you may have. We want to make sure you are comfortable during every visit so that we can provide the best care possible!
