Undergoing a dental exam at least twice a year is important for patients of all ages. A lot of oral health problems go unnoticed because they are symptomless or the signs are so minuscule that only a professional can identify them. Because of this, it is essential to visit a general dentist to undergo dental exams, which usually include a physical examination, as well as x-rays.
Outlined below are a few things that typically occur during a dental exam. This information may be helpful to individuals who are preparing for an upcoming appointment.
Most people will experience the dentist feeling around their oral cavity during a dental exam. It is important for the dentist to physically check the soft tissues of the mouth to make sure there are no abnormalities that could indicate a problem. Additionally, physically checking the mouth helps to identify any oral cancer signs, an important step in dental exams for older patients especially.
A dental exam mainly involves the use of dental instruments or tools. Because the underside of the teeth is not easy to look at directly, the general dentist must use a tool that has a round mirror on the end. This tool does not induce pain, but rather gives the dentist a chance to see all sides and angles of the teeth and gums. The dentist will use this tool to thoroughly examine the oral cavity, checking for infections or abnormalities.
Another part of a dental exam is the x-rays. X-rays are a very useful resource that general dentists rely on in order to see the mouth from a different angle. They give a view of the bone beneath the teeth, as well as the position of the jaw. Additionally, x-rays help identify problems between teeth, which are difficult to see with the normal eye.
While x-rays can be a cause of concern for some, it is important to know that the exposure to radiation is so minimal that there are little to no risks. Pregnant women should consult with the dentist beforehand as they are more at risk.
Another part of a dental exam is the cleaning and fluoride application. Most dental examinations include this part, which is done twice a year or every six months. In the event that the dental exam is for a specific issue and it is not routine then the teeth are not likely to be cleaned.
When looking for more information on what to expect from a dental exam, it is best to reach out to a general dentist. Any questions or concerns can be properly addressed. Additionally, the general dentist can provide specific details on the exam, which can be helpful in easing anxieties or fears about the appointment. Reach out today to learn more or to get scheduled for an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.twinpalmsdental.com or call Twin Palms Dental at (818) 573-2192 for an appointment in our Sylmar office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Exam in Sylmar, CA.
Orthodontic treatment can be quite beneficial to individuals who have crooked or crowded teeth. Although both of these imperfections are not the most appealing to look at, they can also negatively impact the health of the teeth. For example, when certain teeth are not spaced evenly within the arch, the result can be wear and…
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more teeth and want to enhance your oral health and self-esteem. The dental bridge can restore your smile’s appearance and allow you to chew normally once more. If you are considering this treatment, this article outlines all the steps involved so…
Cosmetic dental services primarily focus on the appearance of your smile but can sometimes impact its function. These services can range from changing the brightness of your teeth to their size. There are several professional cosmetic dental services to consider when seeking the smile of your dreams.Gum contouring is a cosmetic dental service for those…
Dental implants are a great way to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge is also a solution for multiple teeth replacement in many cases as well. By learning more about the pros and cons of each option, it will help you decide which treatment option is right for you. Missing teeth create a cosmetic, functional…
When certain teeth are required to do more work than others, the result can be…
A dental bridge might be the right treatment if you have lost one or more…
Cosmetic dental services are available to anyone looking to achieve the smile of their dreams.…
A dental implant is a dental fixture that is placed into the jawbone of the…
Invisalign® is an orthodontic appliance that works by slowly moving teeth into alignment over time…
Teeth become damaged as a result of many things, such as injury, accidents, natural wear…
