Get Regular Dental Exams And Cleanings For Optimum Dental Health
Brushing and flossing your teeth is never enough dental care. That is why everyone needs routine dental exams and cleanings. Dental exams and cleanings go beyond any basic dental cleaning that you can do by yourself.
Dental exams are performed by dentists when they assess your mouth thoroughly to detect any existing dental issues. In the same vein, dental cleanings are part of the dental examination plan. After your teeth have been examined, the dentist will perform a dental cleaning to eliminate plaques and tartars that have accumulated on your teeth and gum.
Why Do You Need Regular Dental Exams & Cleanings?
Dental exams and cleanings fall under preventive dentistry, a branch of dentistry dedicated to preventing dental conditions. This is because your dentist can easily detect dental diseases during your dental examination. As it is often said, prevention is better than cure.
Another advantage of dental exams is early detection. Most dental diseases are easily treated when they are detected on time.
Lastly, during dental cleanings, your dentist will give you essential tips on how to maintain good oral health and prevent dental diseases.
What Does A Dental Examination Entail?
Before getting a dental examination, you have to consult the dentist first. Do not forget to mention your fear of dental treatments (dental phobia) if you have one. Although many are not comfortable with the process, dental exams are often painless and straightforward.
Your dentist will start with a physical exam of your entire mouth. This entails checking your teeth and gums for any signs of trouble. The dentist will check if you have higher chances of developing a tooth infection, root infection, bone disease, or gum infection. If you have a higher chance of developing these dental problems, your dentist will talk to you about a dental plan to manage them. Dentists can prevent tooth decay using fluoride, dental sealants, and other dental treatments for preventive dental care.
Furthermore, the dentist would check your teeth structure to know if you need dental restoration for damaged teeth.
The dentist would also check your bite and examine your jaw. People who have dental irregularities like biting and jaw problems need to see an orthodontist for realignment of the jaw.
If you have teeth stains or are not satisfied with the color of your teeth, you can speak to the dentist about teeth whitening treatments or other dental treatments for teeth discoloration.
You can also speak to the dentist about the adjustment of your prosthetic devices.
The dentist may also conduct oral screenings for the detection of oral cancer.
If you need to see a dentist in Roanoke, please book an appointment with Dr. Cristelle Rodriguez right away.
How Often Do You Need Dental Exams And Cleanings?
Dentists recommend that you come for exams twice a year. However, you need to go more often if your dentist detects a severe problem like gingivitis or periodontitis.
Like adults, children can get dental exams and cleanings. Your children should start seeing a kid’s dentist near you as soon as their first milk/baby tooth erupts. Note that children have higher chances of developing cavities and tooth decay because they consume lots of sugar.
How Long Do Dental Examinations Take?
The length of a dental examination depends on the patient’s age, oral health, and frequency of dental exams. Dental examinations and cleanings in children take less time compared to adults. In adults, the exam can take about 45 to 60 minutes.
Care After Dental Exams
Caring for your teeth and gums after a dental examination has to do with observing excellent personal hygiene. Try to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste. Ensure regular flossing too. Lastly, avoid alcohol and smoking.