Most dentists recommend a check up and cleaning of the teeth a couple times a year, unless some extenuating circumstances require more frequent visits. But what should you expect to occur at such check ups?
And yes, these visits are necessary to prevent and detect cavities and keep the gums healthy. But what else would a good dentist do? There are a lot of other actions a dentist can do to help you maintain good dental health.
A dentist can gain insight into your overall condition and dental situation by discussing with you your medical history. He should ask about any medications you are taking, any existing health situation and any illness.
A dentist will do x-rays to find cavities. But additionally, he should check x-rays for bone and teeth position, and for cysts, tumors and any loss of bone.
Oral cancer should be checked for by examining the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat and gums.
Maintenance of healthy gums is very important, and the dentist should evaluate the conditions of your gums and the bone around the teeth for any signs of disease.
Specialized dental tools should be used to check every surface of every tooth for cavities.
Calculus should be removed. Calculus is hardened plaque which has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
Plaque should be removed. Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease.
Removing stains and plaque on the teeth by polishing is definitely to be expected at any dental check up and cleaning.
A dentist can and should recommend whatever is needed for you to maintain good oral health, such as special cleaning appliances, electric toothbrushes and various mouth rinses.
A dentist should discuss diet with you and recommend whatever is needed to improve dental health.
Now you know - there's more to good dentistry than twice a year checks for cavities and a cleaning. Pick your dentist by using this checklist.
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