What Happens at a Routine Dental Exam?

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If you have asked yourself, “What happens during a dental exam?” don’t worry. Many people feel anxious or uncertain about going to the dentist, especially when it has been a long time since their last visit. In reality, a dental exam is a quick and critical component of maintaining the health of your smile.

Whether you have recently relocated to the area or if you’re looking to find a new dentist in Mill Woods, knowing what is happening during your dental exam can help reduce some anxiety and prepare you somewhat.  

Why is Having Regular Exams Important? 

Regular exams are not just about cavities in teeth but are rather a complete health check in the mouth, and typically these appointments can catch issues early rather than waiting until they become painful and lead to costly repairs.

In a standard dental examination, there are:

  • Visual inspection of the teeth and gums.
  • X-rays to identify hidden problems.
  • Examining gum disease or areas of incipient decay.
  • Looking at the bite and alignment of the jaw.
  • Reviewing any previous dental work (fillings, crowns, bridges, etc.).
  • Discussing your daily oral hygiene practices and providing improvement tips.

What Will the Dentist Look For?

Dentists and hygienists don’t only look for cavities. They check for anything that could potentially affect your mouth/someone else’s mouth in the future. They’ll look for things like: 

  • Swollen or red gums
  • Bleeding when brushing/flossing
  • tooth cracks, chips, or worn teeth
  • Changes in your bite
  • Clenching or grinding signs
  • Unusual sores or spots in your mouth

This comprehensive check is to catch things early and to keep everyone on track with their oral health.

Will I Get My Teeth Cleaned Too?

Yes! Most routine exams also include a professional cleaning. This is important because even if you brush and floss daily, there are still places your toothbrush can’t reach.

The dental hygienist will:

  • Remove plaque and tartar buildup.
  • To get rid of stains, polish your teeth.
  • Keep your teeth clean.
  • Apply fluoride (if recommended)

Your teeth will feel fresh, smooth, and clean after this step.

What If I Have a Dental Bridge?

If you’ve had dental work like a bridge, the dentist will carefully check how it’s holding up. You might be wondering, How can you tell if a dental bridge is bad?

Here are some signs the dentist may look for:

  • Sensitivity or pain near the bridge
  • A loose or shifting fit
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Inflammation or infection under the bridge

Which brings us to another common concern: How do I know if my tooth is infected under my bridge?

The following are some warning signs:

  • A bad taste in your mouth
  • Persistent pain or throbbing
  • Swollen gums near the bridge
  • Discoloration of the surrounding tooth or gum

During your exam, the dentist may take an X-ray to see what’s happening beneath the bridge. This helps confirm if there’s an issue and what needs to be done next.

When Should I Book My Next Exam?

Dental experts recommend a checkup every six months, even if your teeth feel fine. Catching issues early is always easier (and often less costly) than waiting until something hurts.

If it’s been a while since your last visit, you can search for dental exams near you and book your appointment today.

Keep Your Smile Healthy with South Side Dental

Ready for a comfortable and caring dental experience? At South Side Dental, we’re here to make your regular check-ups stress-free and simple. Our team takes time to understand your needs and keeps you informed every step of the way.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we’re happy to welcome you and your family to our clinic. Call or book online now and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile. Your next routine dental exam could be the one that keeps small issues from turning into big ones.

780-306-7697