A Crucial Part of Preventive Healthcare Is Dental Exams and Cleanings
Do you fear dental visits because you don’t like the strange noise and sounds of the dental drill or the smells around the office? If so, you will dread visiting the dentist in Vernon even for dental exams and cleanings. Probably you don’t understand that the exams and cleanings are essential and a crucial part of preventive healthcare.
During dental exams, a dental hygienist from the dental clinic, Vernon, will clean your teeth and identify whether you have cavities or gum disease in your mouth. The exam further includes assessing your risk of developing oral problems of other types, checking your neck, mouth, and face for abnormalities. The dentist may recommend x-rays or other diagnostic procedures.
Your dentist and hygienist will discuss your oral hygiene habits and diet and demonstrate appropriate brushing and flossing techniques. Other topics covered by the dental professional may include lifestyle factors affecting your overall health and cosmetic improvements needed by your teeth.
Why Dental Exams and Cleanings Are Essential?
Dental exams are performed regularly to protect your oral and overall health by detecting signs of some diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other systemic conditions that make an appearance in your mouth initially. If any disease is observed by the dentist or hygienist, they will suggest that you see your medical practitioner. Furthermore, the examination allows your dentist an opportunity to provide tips on caring for your teeth and detecting oral health problems early when they are quickly treatable.
How Frequently Must You Have Dental Exams?
Recommendations are made by the American Dental Association for regular dental exams at intervals determined by their dentist. It is crucial to see your dentist even if you no longer have any natural teeth in your mouth. The exams are essential to maintain your oral health and its usefulness for your replacement teeth.
Preparing for a Dental Exam
If you are visiting exams & cleanings in Vernon for the first time, you can consider the dentist’s location and participation in your health plan. Ensure that you understand their fees and payment options. If you are anxious about the dental exam, you may share your concerns with the dentist or hygienist. They will adjust your treatment to ensure you are more comfortable.
What Can You Expect?
When performing the dental exam, the dentist or hygienist will assess your oral sanitation and overall well-being. Your tooth decay risks, gum disease, root decay, or bone disease are also assessed besides your need for tooth restoration or replacement.
Your jaw and bite are checked for problems even as stains and plaque deposits on your teeth are removed. The hygienist will demonstrate appropriate cleaning techniques for your teeth and dentures if applicable and assess your fluoride need. If required, x-rays are taken, and other diagnostic procedures are performed.
The dentist or hygienist will inquire about your health problems or medications and discuss how they may impact your oral health. You are at an increased risk of diabetes if you are affected by gum disease. Medications contributing to the condition of xerostomia or dry mouth and increase your risk of tooth decay. If you are wearing prosthetics like dentures or bridges, they will be examined by the dentist or hygienist to determine how they fit and discuss the need for adjustments if required
Ryan K dentistry also looks for signs of oral cancer during your dental exam. The dentist will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, the inside of your lips and cheeks, besides examining the sides of your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Oral cancer screening is a preventive measure to ensure you are not affected by this dreaded disease.
The Results
After concluding the exam, the dentist will discuss your oral health and any oral health issues affecting you, including tooth decay or gum disease risk. They will suggest preventive measures for you to enhance and protect your oral health.
The dentist recommends a follow-up visit if you are at a high risk of tooth decay or gingivitis or have other oral issues. They may recommend frequent checkups to detect problems in your mouth and address any issues located.
Occasionally some treatments are performed by dental specialists depending on the complexity of your situation and the care suggested by your dentist.
Dental exams and cleanings are a crucial part of preventive healthcare, and there is no reason for you to fear visiting the dentists for an exam to assess the condition of your dental health.