Regular dental checkups are significant to maintaining good oral health. It can help diagnose dental health problems earlier and prevent severe issues that may need costly treatments. Your general dentist is most likely to schedule a dental checkup at least once a year if you have healthy teeth and gums. The frequency can increase depending on ongoing problems such as gum disease.
The Dental Examination Procedure
For many people, a dental visit is quite anxiety-inducing, even if it is just for a simple teeth exam. Once you know what happens during a dental exam, you can visit your dentist with much calmer nerves. Let us explain the dental examination procedure:
A dental exam can be performed by an orthodontist, periodontist, oral surgeon, or general dentist. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums to see if there are any issues.
The dentist will inspect your teeth for symptoms of deterioration using a dental probe. They will also look for cavities or any other abnormalities with your teeth. They will then proceed to remove plaque and food particles from your teeth and gums. If you do not have gum disease, this is just a regular cleaning, which leaves your mouth feeling clean and fresh. Finally, they will take x-rays of your teeth and gums with an ultrasound machine to ensure that there is no deeper health issue with your mouth.
During theprocedure, typically, the dentist will perform the following steps:
- Checking the teeth and gums for cavities
- Removing the buildup of plaque
- Taking x-rays if required
- Placing a crown over a tooth recently filled or repaired
- Inspecting the hard tissues of the mouth to look for any signs of cancer
A dental checkup is not painful in itself. In fact, if you attend all your scheduled dental exams, then you can easily avoid the more uncomfortable treatments.
After your teeth exam has been completed, the dentist will provide you with some instructions and precautions to maintain a healthy mouth. Since the dentist would have performed a regular cleaning, you will be told to avoid eating solid food for an hour to limit the spread of bacteria. You may also be asked to avoid too hot or cold drinks for an hour after the procedure. Other advice may include how to regularly take care of your teeth and gums such as brushing, flossing, mouthwash, etc.
Dental Services in Chula Vista
Dr. Nick Addario offers quality and affordable dental services in Chula Vista, including a dental checkup. The clinic has a comfortable and hygienic ambience, where clients can receive treatments under the supervision of qualified dental experts. Trained staff assists the dentists and ensures the convenience of the patients.
Dr. Addario’s dental clinic believes in preventative care for maintaining oral health, along with providing a wide range of dental treatments. Patients can get personalized dental plans featuring regular checkups and cleanings to ensure the long-term health of their teeth and gums.