If you haven’t had one in a while, getting a dental exam could seem daunting. Many people in America today don’t think that they aren’t necessary, but regular dental exams are important when it comes to your oral hygiene and preventing tooth decay. Your local dentist has your best health in mind and having a regular dentist visit can prevent infections and even oral cancer.
During a typical exam, the dentist will clean your teeth and check your mouth for cavities, plaque, and gum disease. They will evaluate your risk of developing dangerous diseases such as oral cancer. Sometime before or after checking your teeth and mouth, your dentist or hygienist will typically question you about your diet and oral habits. They may ask you how much sugar you typically consume, how often you brush and floss your teeth, and similar questions. This helps them determine the reason for any dental decay.
It is also likely that they will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques along with giving you a complimentary toothbrush, floss, toothpaste, or mouthwash. The dentist isn’t there to berate you, scare you, or scold you. They only ask you questions about your habits and give you suggestions so that you will know how best to take care of your mouth which will lead to better overall health.
A dental exam may include more intensive procedures such as a dental x-ray, or dental impressions. This may be because you have a jaw misalignment, or your teeth are arranged in a way that can be damaging, or to see how far along your wisdom teeth may be. These dental impressions or x rays may be necessary to begin a process that will end with a better smile and better health.