What to Expect at a Dental Exam: Basic General Dentistry Information
The entire team here at South Ogden Smiles believes in holistic approaches to dental health and wellness. That means an emphasis on promoting good oral hygiene habits as well as preventative dentistry. In other words, the best treatment for a dental problem is making sure one doesn't arise.
Routine dental exams are just one option for preventative care, and yet many patients take these visits for granted. Let's go over the basics of the exam process and help you understand why it's so important.
Never Take These Regular Dentist Visits for Granted
Even though you only visit the dentist twice a year, those visits make a major difference. There are things that can be done in the dentist office that simply cannot be done at home on your own. Do your best to show up at every visit as scheduled and you'll be able to reduce your likelihood of developing cavities and gum disease.
Digital X-Rays for Advanced Diagnostic Needs
X-rays are an excellent way for our team to get a close look at your teeth and the underlying structures of your mouth. This includes an analysis of the interior structures of the teeth, the condition of your fillings and other restorations, the condition of the jaw joint, the health of the jawbone, and so on. Only by using advanced and extremely safe digital radiography is this possible.
Professional Cleaning and Polishing
A professional dental cleaning is an important part of every dental visit. During the professional cleaning, your dentist will use a special electric brush to help polish your teeth totally clean. You will also undergo a thorough flossing, and special scraping tools will be used to remove any built up deposits of plaque in those hard-to-reach places.
A Careful Check of Your Teeth and Gums
Once your teeth have been cleaned, your dentist will then do a careful assessment of the surface of your teeth and gums. This offers a chance to check for lesions and sores, potential gum recession, chips and cavities, and so forth.
Discussing Your Dental Health Concerns
During your dental visit, your dentist will go over some basic dental health concerns with you in some detail. It's also important that you discuss your own concerns with your dentist.
Experiencing pain? Bring it up.
Worried about dry mouth or chronic bad breath? Voice that concern.
This open dialogue with your dentist will allow you to ask questions, receive answers, and also get the treatment you need as soon as possible. Sometimes something minor may be the first signs of a more serious dental health and general wellness issue.
Going Over Future Dental Care Needs
If you do need some form of dental treatment, such as a filling or a crown or perhaps orthodontic work or wisdom tooth removal, this can be discussed during your routine visit. Your dentist will be able to schedule your next appointment to the practice or recommend a specialist who can best meet your needs. Good health means knowing what's to come and planning accordingly.
Providing You with Tips for Maintaining Wellness
In addition to all of the above, your dentist may provide you with dental care tips specific to your needs. This kind of close and careful attention to your dental health shows our commitment to you. We want you to be able to maintain your smile at home, because our primary goal is to make sure you're healthy and happy.
Schedule a Dental Checkup Today
If you would like more information about all of your options for advanced dental care, be sure to contact our holistic dentistry practice today. The entire team here at South Ogden Smiles looks forward to your visit and helping you have a smile that's beautiful and healthy as well.
