Dental Exam Westborough
Are your teeth as healthy as they should be? If you haven’t visited your dentist in quite a while, then maybe they’re not. Dental exams are important for optimal oral health.
These exams should be performed twice a year by your dentist and dental hygienist to clean your teeth and ensure you have no cavities, gum diseases or other issues that could lead to infections, tooth loss or poor general health.
At a dental exam, the dentist and dental hygienist will check your teeth and gums. When caught early on, oral health issues can be treated promptly, before they become serious and painful.
Dental Exam Overview
While most people should get a dental exam every six months, some people require more frequent visits. If you have gum disease, for example, your dentist may want to see you every 3-4 months. More frequent exams can help prevent periodontitis, which is a type of gum disease that can lead to infection and even tooth loss.
Babies should have their first dental appointment by 12 months of age. After that, they should get an exam every six months. More frequent visits may be needed if the dentist finds an oral health issue.
Regular dental exams are important for healthy teeth and gums. Are you due for one? If so, schedule an appointment with the friendly staff at Family Dental Westborough. Call our office today at (508) 366-7450.
Dental Exam Process
Most dental exams consist of two main parts: a thorough cleaning by a hygienist, followed by an exam by the dentist. On certain visits, you will also get X-rays. These are done every 1-2 years. X-rays are images that can show your dentist what’s going on in your mouth. They can detect cavities, gum disease and infections.
During an X-ray, the hygienist will place a lead apron over your chest to protect your body from radiation. To take an X-ray, you will bite down on a small piece of plastic. The hygienist will place a scanner outside your mouth and take a picture. This may be done multiple times.
During the cleaning portion of the exam, the hygienist will use small dental tools to clean your teeth. They will remove plaque and tartar using a scaler. Plaque is a sticky film that coats your teeth with bacteria. It is constantly forming, which is brushing twice a day is essential to remove this substance. If plaque is not removed, it turns into a hard mineral called tartar. This is harder to remove and must be done by a dental professional.
Next, the hygienist will brush your teeth using an electric toothbrush. A gritty toothpaste will be used to polish your teeth. The hygienist will then floss your teeth to remove any debris. A fluoride treatment may also be given, although these are most often given to children to prevent tooth decay. Some adults may get them also, especially if they are prone to cavities.
Additional Treatment
When your dental hygienist is done, it will be time for the dentist to check your teeth and gums. They will check the alignment of your top and bottom teeth and check for oral cancer. The dentist will feel various areas of your mouth, such as the roof and floor of your mouth, the insides of your lips, the sides of your tongue and under your jaw. The dentist will also check your X-rays, if you took any, and inform you of any issues.
Will I need to do anything to prepare for a dental exam?
Practicing good oral hygiene at home will help you prepare for your dental exam. This includes brushing and flossing daily. It’s a good idea to use a soft-bristled brush and replace it every 3-4 months. Good nutrition is also important. Aim for foods that are low in sugar. If you smoke, quit. Smoking is bad for your mouth. It can lead to tooth discoloration, oral cancer and other issues.
If you have a chronic health condition, let your dentist know. You may need to take antibiotics before your exam