Your greatest asset is your smile, which can be an instrument of pride and self-assurance. Unfortunately, it is all too simple to fail to recognize the significance of oral health. However, the quality of your smile depends on how well you care for your teeth. Regular dental examinations are, therefore, essential. During your appointment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to ensure everything is in order. Here are a few essential elements of a dental exam that will ensure that your smile stays healthy and radiant.
A dental exam is a dentist or dental hygienist’s assessment of your teeth and mouth’s overall health. It typically involves a visual examination of the teeth, gums, tongue, and other soft-tissue structures in the mouth for signs of erosion, disease, or additional problems. A Brookline general dentist can help you by offering you the best services so as to get the best treatment for your teeth.
Key components of a dental exam to ensure healthy teeth
Examining visually: During the inspection, your dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any indications of disease. They will search for indications of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other problems.
- Your dental professional will also sanitize your teeth during the examination. This aids in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems from ever occurring.
- Fluoride treatment: Fluoride is a mineral that strengthens teeth and prevents cavities. During the examination, your dentist may suggest a treatment with fluoride to safeguard your teeth.
- Examine medical history: Your dental professional or dental hygienist will examine your medical history in order to find any conditions or medicines that could affect your oral health.
- Visual examination of your teeth and gums: Your dental professional or hygienist will visually inspect your teeth, gums, tongue, and other soft tissue structures in your mouth for evidence of tooth decay, disease, or other problems.
- X-rays or other imaging tests: Your dentist may use X-rays or other imaging tests to check for issues that may not be visible during a visual examination, such as cavities among teeth or problems with the mandible.
Your dental professional can utilize a probe to determine the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums to detect any gum disease symptoms.
- Oral cancer screening: Your dental professional or dental hygienist will also inspect your mouth for oral cancer symptoms, such as sores or tumors.