Dental Exams: Are They Necessary?

A dental exam is a routine visit during which the dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth area. Your dentist may also take x-rays and perform oral cancer screenings during every exam. A dental exam allows your dentist to diagnose and treat any dental issues you may have, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.

Why are dental exams necessary?

Your dental health is interconnected with your overall health. That’s why it is so important to have regular dental exams. The dentist is able to spot potential problems such as cavities, infections, and gum disease. They are also able to spot signs of more serious problems like oral cancer, diabetes, and vitamin deficiencies.

What to expect during a dental exam?

A professional dental exam at your dentist involves a complete evaluation of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone structure. Your dentist will thoroughly check each tooth, looking for signs of decay and damage, and they will also look for any indications of gum disease. Your dentist will also check your neck, jaw, and bite to make sure that everything is healthy.

During a dental exam, the dentist or hygienist will:

• Take X-rays to check for the presence of tooth decay, bone loss, and other issues that cannot be seen by the naked eye.
• Monitor the overall health of your teeth and gums
• Remove plaque and tartar from a patient’s teeth
• Identify any potential oral problems, such as cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease
• Perform a periodontal evaluation
• Provide oral cancer screenings
• Assess a patient’s risk of developing dental problems in the future
• Discuss a patient’s at-home dental care routine

What is the recommended frequency for dental exams?

The American Dental Association recommends a dental visit every six months. This frequency is ideal for maintaining excellent oral health. However, if you doubt any dental problems, it is necessary for a dentist to recommend more frequent visits.

If you’re experiencing any of the following warning signs, schedule a your dental exam at the earliest:

• You have persistent bad breath.
• Your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding.
• You have difficulty eating.
• Your teeth are aching.
• Your teeth are sensitive to hot and cold.

What will happen if I skip a dental exam?

Skipping dental exams can lead to serious dental problems. Your dental exams are a time for your dental team to assess your dental health and detect problems before they become serious. This can help prevent the need for more comprehensive and expensive dental treatments in the future.

Call Desert Mountain Dental today at (520)-324-0100 and schedule your dental check-up.