The thorough nature of a dental exam might surprise you. While it’s common to look for signs of gum disease and tooth decay, your dentist screens oral tissue for a number of potential concerns during your appointment.
Tooth Decay is Preventable
All dental checkups involve evaluating the health of every tooth. Avoiding sugar, practicing proper oral hygiene, and receiving routine checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay.
When teeth are weak or show signs of potential decay, dentists can perform preventive treatments like applying fluoride or dental sealants. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel surfaces of teeth while sealants add a layer of invisible protection from debris and bacteria.
Periodontal Health Evaluations are Performed
Your gums are an integral part of the oral health system. Like other living tissue, gums are prone to developing the disease. The most common threat to your gum health is periodontal disease. This condition is the leading cause of adult-aged tooth loss and also contributes to bone atrophy, recurring infections, and halitosis.
Every checkup includes an evaluation of a person’s periodontal health.
Dentists Can Tell if You’re Stressed
Not only does stress weaken the immune system, it can take a toll on oral health. Tooth wear, caused by clenching and grinding teeth, commonly afflicts people enduring excessive stress. If your oral healthcare provider finds signs of tooth wear, he or she may recommend stress reduction techniques and oral appliances to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Diagnostic Images Can Reveal a Number of Concerns
Diagnostic images play an important role in diagnosing oral health issues. While some oral health concerns are visible to the naked eye, many can develop without noticeable symptoms. Not only can diagnostics assist with revealing tooth decay, but they can also reveal issues like bone atrophy and tumors.
Checkups Include Oral Cancer Screenings
Mouth cancer can develop anywhere in the oral cavity. The good news is that oral cancer is often curable when detected in its early stages. Your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening during your dental exam. Risk factors for oral cancer include frequent alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and exposure to HPV.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, call Westside Dental Group to set up an appointment.