Everyone needs to have their teeth examined and cleaned regularly. Routine exams and cleaning near you will reveal the overall health of your teeth and gums and determine if you need restorative care like fillings or extractions, or preventive care like sealants or fluoride treatments. Your dentist will also look for gum disease as well as oral cancer.
Identify problems in the mouth – exams check for cavities, look for signs of periodontal disease and reveal infections that need treatment. Cleaning removes plaque from teeth, which can cause tooth decay as well as gum inflammation or infection.
Exams and cleanings are a way to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. The dentist or dental hygienist will aim to keep your mouth healthy – exams may be able to find periodontal diseases that cause inflammation around the teeth.
At your exam and cleaning in Houston, TX, your dentist or dental hygienist will:
This includes asking you questions about existing health problems like diabetes or heart disease, any medications you take, and if you are pregnant. A physical exam is also done to look for swollen gums, sores on the lips or mouth, and oral cancer.
The dentist will examine your teeth and gums, using a probe, mirror, and other instruments to look for decay or gum disease. An x-ray may be done to check the condition of the gums. The imaging procedure can reveal cavities under the surface of the tooth enamel as well as bone loss from periodontal disease.
Oral cancer screening is recommended for all people, especially those at risk of developing mouth cancer. The dentist will do a visual and physical examination to check if you have immobile tissues or abnormal growth.
Fluoride treatment is also done as part of your exams and cleaning in Houston. The dentist will apply a varnish, foam, or gel on the enamel to strengthen it and make it able to withstand the cavities.
The treatment is recommended for people at risk of developing decay, those with a dry mouth, or undergoing treatment like radiotherapy. You can get fluoride treatment every three, six, or twelve months based on your risk level, treatment, and medication you can take.
Regular exams and cleaning in TX offer great benefits such as:
With regular dental exams and cleanings, the dentist can spot concerns that can progress into larger issues later. Most dental problems like cavities progress without warning, and they may advance and damage the teeth if not addressed early. The dentist can detect cavities in their early stage and use fillings to restore the function and strength of the teeth.
Exams and cleanings in 77070 can save your teeth from extraction if decay is detected on time. You only have one set of permanent teeth, and if they are extracted, you will have to depend on restorative dental procedures to restore your smile and appearance.
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, the problem with mouth cancer is late detection. Getting oral cancer screening annually can help the dentist detect any cancerous cells on time and begin treatment. This will increase your chances of surviving the disease and prevent other complications.
During your routine exams and cleaning, the dentist can detect cracks, chips, and discoloration and recommend suitable cosmetic dental procedures.
The most common procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, veneers, and crowns. These cosmetic treatments help to restore the appearance of your teeth.
Halitosis or chronic breath occurs because of poor dental hygiene, and it is an issue that you cannot treat on your own. It is important to visit the dentist to examine and pinpoint the cause of bad breath.
Visit OASIS Modern Dentistry for more information about the exam and cleaning procedure and what you can expect.