Exactly how long has it been since your last dental exam? If you can’t quite remember, it’s probably wise to give us a call and check. Your oral health is so important, and regular checkups will keep it in top shape. Not quite convinced that your next exam is worth it? This blog post breaks down some of the steps of exams to detail all that they accomplish – and why exams are crucial parts of your oral care.
Glen Burnie Teeth Cleaning and Dental Exam
Your dental exams are part investigation, part cleaning, and part discussion. Your dentist looks at your teeth, gums, and oral tissues to check for signs of disease. Your hygienist cleans bacteria and plaque from your teeth. And to finish off the appointment, Maryland Family Dentistry’s staff gives you some oral hygiene instruction. Each of these steps is crucial, and each one offers something you can’t find at home.
Exactly Why Is Your Dental Appointment So Important?
You’ll be screened for oral cancer.
Oral cancer is a prevalent but often undiscussed problem. The American Cancer Society estimates that 2014 will see about 37,000 new cases of oral or oropharyngeal cancer, and 7,300 will die of oral cancer. The fight against cancer is always aided by early detection. When you have a regular dental exam, you’re giving us a chance to investigate your mouth for signs of cancer or any abnormalities present in your mouth. Oral cancer screening is simple and comfortable, and could prove invaluable to your oral and whole body health.
We’ll remove plaque from your teeth.
When oral hygiene isn’t cutting it, plaque begins to build up on teeth. This sticky layer of bacteria clings to tooth surfaces and attracts more and more bacteria, thickening over time. If plaque is allowed to remain on teeth, it hardens and turns to tartar or calculus, which is much more difficult to remove. This heightens the risk of periodontal disease and cavities.
We’ll take x-rays to look for signs of hidden problems.
Cavities often form in places that aren’t visible to the naked eye. The cracks and fissures in molars and spaces between teeth are welcome homes for food particles and bacteria. You may not feel any discomfort from these cavities, meaning they’ll have ample time to develop and deepen. X-rays will bring them to our attention and allow us to take action. Dental x-rays also reveal impacted teeth and other issues below the gum line. Maryland Family Dentistry’s digital x-rays provide excellent results without exposing patients to the same amount of radiation.
Your gums will be examined for signs of gingivitis.
Gingivitis is the earliest form of periodontal disease. If it’s tackled as soon as possible, it may not be able to develop into full-blown gum disease. This will save you discomfort, gum damage, invasive treatment, and even tooth loss.
Your dentist will discuss your oral hygiene.
Checking in on your own oral hygiene is key. You may not be brushing and flossing as effectively as possible, which essentially leads to wasted time. Few patients really love the process of cleaning their teeth – why not make that time count? Your dentist will talk to you about how you’re doing, and recommend new products or practices that may help you avoid future problems.
Ready for your next exam? It’s never to early to get on our schedule. Call today and we’ll get you set up for your next routine appointment.
