Regular Checkups for Excellent Dental Health

Author: hsdcuk | Posted: 27.04.2012

Regular dental exams are a fundamental part of good oral hygiene. Beginning during childhood, checkups every six months are recommended as a preventative measure. Your dentist will be able to see any potential problems and correct them before they move to an advanced stage. Even if you do not have any natural teeth and only wear dentures, it is important to schedule checkups so the dentist can monitor your gum health.

When you make your dental appointment, let the staff know if you have any fear or anxiety surrounding the checkup. They will be able to help you get through it as calmly as possible. As long as the dentist and oral hygienist know that you are nervous, they will do everything they can to accommodate you.

What to expect

The dentist or hygienist will start by asking you questions about your general health. They do this to get an overall picture of any specific issues which may increase your chances of dental problems. The questions asked may consist of:

- What medications you are taking.

- If you have any health problems.

- How often you brush and floss.

Having a dry mouth caused by a medication can cause additional problems. Also, conditions like diabetes or arthritis can contribute to decline of your oral health. It is necessary to be honest with them about these things. They cannot help you improve your oral health without accurate information.

X-rays are part of the exam process. They may be panoramic so the dentist can get a good view of your entire mouth, or they may focus on procedures you have had before. The results will give them good information about the overall health of your teeth.

Other parts of the exam

Your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of oral cancer. They will view the inside of your mouth, your tongue, the sides of your neck and under your jaw. If they see anything suspicious, you will be sent for further testing. The rest of the standard procedures include:

- Cleaning your teeth.

- Looking for any cavities, gum disease or other decay.

- Assess possible need for restorative work.

- Check your jaw and bite to see if they are lining up correctly.

- Make sure dentures and other removable appliances fit.

- Address any concerns you may have.

Once the exam has been completed, your dentist or hygienist will show you the best cleaning techniques to use. They will also make sure you have information about things that will damage your teeth like smoking, getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet, and other lifestyle choices that may be detrimental to your oral health. Finally, schedule your next appointment and you are done.


About Author:
Harley Street Dental Clinic is a leading Dental Implants & Cosmetic Dentistry Clinic situated at Harley Street, London and offers the best in Pain Free Dentistry.

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