What is included in a regular dental check-up?
A regular dental check-up is a crucial part of maintaining oral health and preventing dental
problems.
These appointments typically involve a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, gums, and overall
oral cavity.
Here's what you can expect during a typical dental check-up:
1. Medical History Review: Your dentist will start by reviewing your medical history,
including
any existing health conditions, medications you're taking, and past dental procedures. This
information
helps the dentist understand your overall health and identify any factors that may affect your
dental
care.
2. Visual Examination: The dentist will visually inspect your mouth, teeth, and gums for
signs
of decay, damage, or abnormalities. They will check for cavities, plaque buildup, gum disease, oral
lesions, and other oral health issues. Using a dental mirror and sometimes a dental explorer, they
will
carefully examine each tooth's surfaces and the soft tissues inside your mouth.
3. Dental X-Rays: Depending on your dental history and individual needs, your dentist may
take
dental X-rays to get a more detailed view of your teeth and underlying structures. X-rays can reveal
issues such as cavities between teeth, impacted wisdom teeth, bone loss, and jaw problems that may
not be visible during a visual examination.
4. Gum Evaluation: Your dentist will assess the health of your gums by measuring the depth
of the spaces between your gums and teeth (periodontal pockets). Deep pockets may indicate gum
disease, so your dentist will check for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession. They may
also evaluate your bite and the alignment of your teeth.
5.Professional Cleaning: A dental hygienist will perform a professional cleaning
(dental prophylaxis) to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along the gumline.
They will use special instruments to scrape away hardened plaque and then polish your teeth to
remove surface stains and create a smooth, shiny finish.
6. Oral Cancer Screening: Your dentist will conduct an oral cancer screening to check
for signs of oral cancer or precancerous lesions. They will examine your lips, tongue, gums,
cheeks, throat, and the roof and floor of your mouth for any abnormalities or suspicious areas.
7. Discussion and Recommendations: After completing the examination and cleaning, your
dentist will
discuss their findings with you and provide personalized recommendations for maintaining or
improving you
r oral health. This may include tips for better oral hygiene, dietary advice, instructions for
proper
brushing and flossing techniques, and recommendations for further treatment if necessary.
Regular dental check-ups are essential for catching dental problems early, preventing complications,
and maintaining a healthy smile. It's generally recommended to schedule dental exams every six
months,
but your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your individual needs and oral health
status.
By attending regular check-ups and following your dentist's advice, you can keep your teeth and gums
healthy
for years to come.