Dental Checks

Dental Checks….how often do you go??

Most people who have a good relationship with their family dentist and actually enjoy going for a dental check up. However a small amount of people still dread the visit even though they like and trust their dentist. It is often a result of the fear factor.

As a preventative measure, an appointment should be scheduled twice a year for a routine check-up so the dentist can examine your teeth for any signs of decay and make sure there are not any other potential dental issues.

This way, if problems are discovered, the dentist can take steps to fix problems before they become worse.

During the dental check your teeth will be given a thorough clean. The dentist will use a special tool to remove any build up of tartar and then give your teeth a polish and perhaps an extra strength fluoride treatment.

If necessary the dentist may also take x-rays if it is suspected there could be other unseen dental problems.

A comprehensive dental exam will be preformed if you haven’t been to the dentist for a long time or if you are visiting a new dentist for the first time. This type of examination is necessary so the dentist can get to know the overall stateyou’re your dental health.

First a thorough examination will take place before the dentist will take a full set of x-rays of your whole mouth. These will stay on file and help to identify any abnormalities that need to be treated.

In addition the dentist will look closely at your gums and other soft tissue inside your mouth for any signs of redness or puffiness that might indicate gum disease.

During this visit, the dentist will also want to examine your neck, face and chin for any signs of swelling or other abnormalities.

Your saliva glands and lymph nodes will also be checked for any signs of the same. Also you might be asked to open and close your mouth and to move it from side to side to make sure the Temporomandibular joint is functioning properly in your jaw.

The dentist will check your bite as well to ensure your teeth are in proper alignment and that you are not in need of corrective teeth braces.

Your dentist will ask you about any illnesses or diseases you have as some conditions will have an impact on your teeth. Also he will need to know about any medications you are taking.

Before your visit it is a good idea to write everything down, including the dosage so your dentist can record this in your file.

At the end of the dental check up, your dentist or dental hygienist will discuss with you ways to improve your dental hygiene routine, as well as, recommend any further treatments like Filling Cavities that might be necessary as a result of what problems were found during your check-up.