Dental Exams
Regular dental exams are essential to protecting your mouth from cavities, tooth discoloration and gum disease.
Who needs them? -The Academy of General Dentistry recommends dental checkups twice a year for people of all ages.
What is your exam? – Your dentist performs a visual examination of your mouth, looking not just for cracked and decayed teeth, but also for growths and sores on the tongue, palate, and mucous membrane which lines the cheeks and covers the gums. Some dentists will also use tiny video cameras placed inside the mouth to project images on color monitors.
Dental X rays are still necessary to detect hidden problems, particularly below the gums. Only your dentist can decide when they are needed. Your dentist may also use a pointed probe to measure the depth of your gum pockets. This quick exam can help determine whether you're beginning to show any signs of gum disease.
What do the results mean? - If your dentist finds cavities, cracked teeth, or broken fillings, they'll determine the best option for repair (filling, crown, root canal, extraction). Your dentist will recommend careful flossing and regular use of an antiseptic mouthwash and may refer you to a periodontist or oral surgeon if you have severe or rapidly advancing gum disease.
Call for an Appointment Today!