A dental checkup, or dental exam, is basically a checkup of your teeth and gums. Most dentists recommend that patients see them regularly because of the importance of dental visits. They are essential for the maintenance of healthy teeth as well as gums. And in between those checkups, it is vital that you brush and floss every day.
First, it is important for a person to choose a good dentist. A patient should then schedule a checkup before any issues arise. On the first dental visit, the full health history will be taken. On subsequent visits, the dental office should be informed of any changes in a patient’s health status.
In a majority of cases, dental visits are checkups. Regular checkups will help to ensure that the teeth stay cleaner and last longer. These exams will also help prevent a myriad of problems from developing. Here are some important parts of a routine dental checkup.
Checkups most often include a complete cleaning. This can be performed by either the dentist or hygienist. Using the appropriate instruments, the hygienist will scrape below the patient’s gumline. This will help remove built-up plaque and tartar that usually cause many problems. These include gum disease, bad breath, cavities and other issues. The patient’s teeth may also be polished and flossed.
The dentist will conduct a thorough examination of the mouth, teeth and gums. The dental provider will be looking for signs of disease or any other problems. This is necessary to prevent problems from becoming worse. If any problems are identified, the dentist will deal with them as soon as possible.
X-rays may be recommended based on a number of factors. This may include the age of the patient, the risks of disease and symptoms. X-rays can help diagnose problems that are difficult to notice. These range from damage to jawbones, abscesses, impacted teeth to cysts or tumors.
Many dental offices use machines that emit virtually no radiation. But particular precautions have to be taken. A patient has to wear a lead apron when having an X-ray. A woman who is pregnant should inform the dentist. X-rays are only supposed to be taken in emergency situations.
If the teeth and gums are in great shape, a patient may not have to return for a couple of months. This could be for three to six months. If further treatment is needed, the patient should schedule an appointment before leaving the dentist’s office. This could be to fill a cavity or repair a broken crown.
A dental checkup may include a cleaning, a checkup of the mouth by the dentist and X-rays on particular visits. Regular dental visits can help your dentist to spot problems early. This is important because treatment may be simpler and more cost-effective. These visits also help prevent numerous problems from even developing. Seeing your dentist occasionally is also important because the symptoms of some diseases or medical conditions can appear in the mouth.
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