Ensuring good oral health and hygiene involves attending biannual dental visits. These regular checkups play a vital role in identifying and preventing oral health issues before they escalate, ultimately saving you time, money, and discomfort. However, during these appointments, your dentist performs a range of tasks that you may not be fully aware of. To shed light on the matter, read on to discover nine essential things your dentist does during these visits.
#1: Tongue Examination
The examination of your tongue is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health during dental checkups. Your dentist closely assesses your tongue to identify any potential problems, including infections, vitamin deficiencies, or abnormalities in size and texture that may impact your oral health.
#2: Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer is a grave and potentially life-threatening condition that can impact various areas of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, and gums. In order to facilitate early detection, your dentist performs a comprehensive examination during routine dental checkups, thoroughly inspecting your lips, neck, head, and mouth for any indications of oral cancer.
#3: Salivary Gland Evaluation
Saliva plays a vital role in preventing the buildup of plaque and bacteria, therefore maintaining good oral health. However, if your salivary glands are not functioning properly, it can result in issues such as bad breath, cavities, and other oral health problems. During your dental checkup, your dentist carefully assesses your mouth for any signs of abnormal dryness and may suggest a personalized treatment plan.
#4: Teeth Inspection
During a dental checkup, your dentist conducts a thorough examination of your teeth using specialized tools like a dental mirror and explorer. This meticulous inspection helps to identify any potential issues or abnormalities. Additionally, your dentist evaluates the condition of your tooth enamel to ensure that there are no cavities or other dental problems present.
#5: Tonsil Examination
During a tonsil examination, your dentist will carefully assess your throat for indications of inflammation or infection, as swollen or inflamed tonsils can be symptomatic of tonsillitis. This can be caused by various health conditions, including measles.
#6: Bite Inspection
Maintaining proper alignment of your teeth is crucial for a healthy bite as it helps prevent premature tooth wear, TMJ issues, and even spinal misalignment. If you have bite issues, your dental health professional may recommend orthodontic treatment to correct them, ultimately enhancing your oral health and overall well-being.
#7: Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Assessment
During your dental checkup, your dentist will assess your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), responsible for jaw movement. Examining this joint is crucial as issues with it can lead to pain, discomfort, joint locking, and difficulty chewing. Furthermore, this examination aids in the prevention and early detection of various conditions, including arthritis, jaw injuries, bruxism, and connective tissue diseases.
#8: Oral Hygiene Analysis
During your checkup, your oral health professional will assess your oral hygiene routine and conduct a thorough examination of your mouth. Additionally, they will offer valuable advice on how to enhance your brushing and flossing techniques for more effective oral care.
#9: Gum Examination
During your checkup, your dentist carefully evaluates the health of your gums, searching for signs of inflammation, bleeding, and recession. These symptoms can be indicative of gum disease, which necessitates timely treatment to prevent further complications.
About the Practice
At Allen Smile Design, a comprehensive range of top-notch, all-inclusive services are at your disposal. They also offer valuable guidance on at-home oral care and recommendations that promote a healthy smile. With a highly experienced and skilled team of dentists, Allen Smile Design is devoted to helping patients achieve the beautiful and healthy smiles they deserve. To make an appointment or to learn more about Allen Smile Design’s services, visit their website or call (972) 954-9728.