A dental check-up is important for good oral health. During a routine appointment, the dentist can discover a number of oral health issues and cosmetic flaws. Such issues can be treated or prevented before they worsen. Patients are generally advised to visit the dentist every six months for dental exams and cleaning.
When patients know the potential conditions that the dental professional can detect during a dental check-up, they might realize the importance of the appointment and take it more seriously. Some of the conditions that a dental check-up can uncover include:
Signs of cavities or tooth decay are often the first thing the dentist will check for during a dental exam. It is often easier to discover cavities on the front row teeth. Cavities on the back teeth may go undetected for many months. The dentist will also check if the enamel is weak or demineralized. Patients will undergo treatment to protect the teeth from further decay. Early detection of cavities ensures early treatment and prevents possible dental infection.
Gum disease is prevalent, being one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. The condition, which affects millions of people in the United States, can progress for several months without any sign. Without treatment, gum disease can cause other conditions such as recessed gums, oral infection, and tooth loss. The dentist will check for signs of gum disease during the dental check-up, which includes gum inflammation, swelling, recession, or discoloration.
They will recommend treatment, usually scaling and root planing, to eliminate plaque, tartar, and infection from the gum pockets and surrounding areas. Patients will also learn how to maintain good oral health at home and prevent gum diseases.
When detected early, oral cancer can be treated easily and successfully. The dentist will examine the cheeks, tongue, and gums for signs of cancer. If any issue is suspected, additional screenings such as biopsies and X-rays may be requested. It is better to catch cancer in its early stages during dental check-ups before it progresses to advanced stages.
Poor oral health is not the only thing a dental check-up reveals. While oral health is the main reason for the dental exam, the dental professional will also check for issues that may affect the teeth’ appearance, such as misalignment and discoloration. Plaque or tartar accumulation on the teeth can make them look less appealing. The dentist can also discover a developing wisdom tooth that might cause issues and take necessary measures before it wreaks havoc on the mouth and requires lengthy teeth straightening treatments to fix.
Most of the issues that are discoverable during a dental check-up have easy treatment if identified early. If it has been a long time since your last dental appointment, you need to make plans to visit the dentist as soon as possible. During the check-up, the dentist will examine your oral cavity for oral health issues and recommend ways to keep your mouth healthy at home.
Request an appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach office.
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