Why are dental exams and cleanings essential?
Just like it's really important to eat the right foods, get enough sleep, and exercise, it's also crucial to maintain the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, tongue, and cheek. Dentists and dental hygienists are here to ensure your mouth is healthy, free from diseases or infections, and everything is functioning as it should. Regular cleanings and exams are the way we achieve this.
What is included in a dental exam?
In a dental exam, we're looking at a few things. We inspect your teeth for health, cavities and cracks, and check fillings, crowns or restorations for any wear or failures. We also examine the soft tissue in your mouth, including your tongue, gums, and cheeks, to ensure there's no infection and everything is clean and healthy.
What is a dentist looking for during a dental exam?
We're looking for the health of your tissues, including your teeth, tongue, cheeks, and gums. If you have any fillings, crowns or implants, we check they are in good condition and there's no residual infection. We also ensure nothing is leaking or broken. Sometimes, we use x-rays to see what's not visible on the surface.
What type of recommendations might come from a dental exam?
Ideally, everything is healthy and working properly. However, sometimes we might find a cavity, infection, or a broken filling or tooth. In such cases, we assess the situation and recommend necessary steps to restore your oral health.
How long does a full dental exam take?
A complete exam for a first-time patient can take anywhere from half an hour to an hour. We might take x-rays to see what's going on beneath the surface, and also examine the health of your mouth, teeth, and soft tissues.
Are dental exams painful?
Most dental exams are comfortable. Sometimes, taking pictures or x-rays might be slightly uncomfortable, but we try to make the process as quick and comfortable as possible. We can use numbing gel or topical analgesics to ease any discomfort.
How can I schedule a dental exam?
The best way to schedule an exam with our office is to give us a call at (916) 848-2145, or you can make an appointment on our website.