Regular dental checkups are more than just cleaning your teeth; they are about helping to prevent serious problems before they happen. If you are searching for a dentist near Millwoods, it is helpful to know what to expect from a visit. If it is your first appointment in a long time or you attend checkups every six months, knowing what goes on during your dental exam can help to ensure the experience is less intimidating.
Here are the top 5 things that dentists will typically check during a dental exam:
1. Your Overall Oral Health
- When dentists are assessing a patient’s mouth, they are looking at the mouth as a whole and not just the teeth.
- During dental exams near you, they will assess your mouth for any signs of swelling, dryness, or unusual sores.
- Along with looking for any size of swelling, they will take a closer look at your soft tissues (gums, cheeks, and tongue).
- This process allows them to identify early signs of infection, inflammation, and possible oral cancers, even potentially treating these issues if prompt action is taken.
2. Gum Health and Recession
- Keeping your gums healthy is one of the ways dentists work to keep your teeth strong and stable.
- Your dentist will take care to probe underneath your soft tissues to measure their pocket depths and check for any signs of bleeding or swelling.
- These signs may indicate early signs of gum disease, known as gingivitis or, in late cases, periodontitis.
- In the event your dentist sees changes in your gums over time, that can help better protect your smile in the long term.
3. Tooth Decay and Cavities
- Using small tools and sometimes X-rays, your dentist looks for soft spots, cracks, or holes in your teeth.
- Early tooth decay might not hurt, so spotting it early during a dental exam is important.
- Catching a cavity before it worsens saves you from bigger repairs later.
- They may also check for worn enamel, which can make teeth more sensitive.
- If decay is found, a simple filling can often fix the problem quickly.
- Preventing cavities early means less time in the chair and lower dental costs in the future.
4. Bite and Jaw Alignment
- Your bite is how your upper and lower teeth come together.
- Dentists check how your teeth fit and if there’s any clicking or pain when you open and close your mouth.
- This helps spot issues like teeth grinding, TMJ problems, or uneven wear on teeth.
5. Plaque, Tartar, and Stains
- Even with good brushing habits, some areas in the mouth are hard to reach.
- Your dentist checks for plaque (the soft buildup) and tartar (the hardened version).
- If not removed, tartar can lead to gum disease and bad breath.
- The dentist will also note any surface stains and guide you on how to keep your smile brighter.
- They may suggest better brushing or flossing techniques to target those tricky spots.
- Regular cleanings help maintain fresh breath and a healthy-looking smile.
What are the 5 Key Parts of a Dental Examination?
- Teeth inspection
- Gum health assessment
- Soft tissue check
- Bite and jaw analysis
- Plaque and tartar evaluation
These five areas cover everything your dentist needs to make sure your oral health is on track.
What is the Rule of 7 in Dentistry?
The rule of 7 in dentistry refers to the guideline that by the age of 7, children should have their first orthodontic check-up. It helps spot growth issues early and guide the proper development of teeth and jaws.
Early visits allow the dentist to watch for problems like crowding, bite issues, or jaw misalignment. They can also recommend whether early treatment might make future braces easier or even unnecessary. This early attention gives kids a better chance at a healthy, well-aligned smile as they grow.
Looking for a Caring Team? Visit Southside Dental!
At Southside Dental, we make every dental visit easy and comfortable. Our friendly team is here to help with everything from checking your gums to spotting small cavities before they grow. We take the time to focus on what matters most: your health and your confidence.
Book your checkup today and give your smile the care it deserves. Your future self will thank you!
Call now or book online with Southside Dental, your neighbourhood dental team in Millwoods!