A dental exam is an important part of your dental and general health care. Dentists recommend coming in for an examination at least two times a year to get your teeth cleaned and your mouth, head, and neck examined. These appointments are used to detect any oral issues that you might be developing, to perform preventative treatments as needed, and to treat any existing dental issues.
What to expect during a dental exam
Here are a few of the things to be prepared for at a clinic for a dental exam.
1. Interview
Dental examinations typically start with the dentist talking to the patient about their medical and dental history. The interview part typically takes longer when the dentist is dealing with a new patient. The dentist will also go over any goals that the patient has regarding the appearance of their teeth.
2. Examination
Once the dentist is done gathering information from the patient, an examination of their mouth, neck, and head is done. The dentist scans for signs of dental issues and general health conditions, like oral cancer. Tests like radiographs and X-rays might also be used to get a clearer picture of the patient’s issues.
3. Teeth cleaning
Teeth cleanings are standard when it comes to dental appointments. These treatments help protect teeth against decay by removing tartar from their surfaces. Plaque hardens into tartar when left on teeth, and the latter cannot be removed by flossing or brushing.
Dentists use scalers to remove tartar from teeth surfaces. Professional flossing is also performed during the treatment. The dentist finishes up by polishing the patient’s teeth.
4. Preventative treatments
Preventative procedures, like fluoride treatments, are often performed after dental examinations if the patient’s teeth are susceptible to decay. Other treatments, like dental sealants, can also be used to protect teeth as needed. These treatments help keep the patient’s teeth healthy, which can lower their dental bills in the long run.
5. Dental treatments
A dentist might opt to perform a few of the treatments that a patient needs right after their examination. For example, if a patient’s teeth have been damaged by tooth decay, composite bonding or fillings can be used to restore their teeth. If the patient has an infected tooth, a root canal can be performed to treat the infection and save the tooth.
6. Education
Dentists also spend time educating their patients about how to maintain optimal dental health. This includes teaching patients proper oral hygiene habits and how to properly brush their teeth. Dentists also educate patients about foods that are good for their teeth and those that are not. Good oral hygiene includes brushing two times a day, flossing once daily, and finishing each mouth-cleaning session with an antibacterial mouthwash.
Get a dental examination
When was the last time that a dentist took a good look at your teeth? Call or visit our Kaysville clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.kaysvillefamilydentistry.com or call Kaysville Family Dentistry at (801) 546-2439 for an appointment in our Kaysville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Kaysville, UT.
