Step By Step Guide To A Dental Visit
Going to the dentist is never easy or fun, and some people have a fear of visiting the dentist. The process can be lengthy and uncomfortable and the thought of having dental work can be scary. However, dental hygiene is a necessity to our overall health and should be taken seriously. This article will provide a step by step guide of what to expect during a dental visit.
Dental Cleaning
One part of your dental visit will be the teeth cleaning. Your dental hygienist will likely complete this part of the visit using various tools and methods. During the cleaning, the hygienist will stress the importance of maintaining good dental hygiene in between visits to your dentist in order to prevent cavities and other oral health issues. Your dental hygienist will check the cleanliness of your teeth and gums, remove any plaque and tartar that has built up on your teeth, polish your teeth, floss your teeth, and review recommend flossing and brushing techniques with you. The dental hygienist will use a scraper and other instruments to insure that your teeth and thoroughly cleaned and healthy when you leave the office. During the cleaning, the hygienist will be able to see any damage or concerns that might be occurring with your teeth and report them to the dentist. When the dentist completes his part of the exam, he can know what he is looking for.
Head and Neck Exam
One thing that might not be expected at a dental visit is an examination of your head and neck. Your dentist will complete a head and neck exam in order to determine anything out of the ordinary that might be occurring with your lymph nodes, head, neck, and jaws. Your dentist might also examine your face, bite, saliva, and jaw movements to determine if TMJ is occurring.
Clinical Dental Exam
The clinical part of the dental exam is perhaps the most important and most thorough. During this part of the dental exam, your dentist will examine many things. Your teeth will be thoroughly examined for any tooth decay, loose teeth, broken teeth, damaged fillings, checking the contact between your teeth and examining braces, etc. The dentist will also examine your gums for the following concerns: signs of gum disease or any changes in the gums covering the teeth. The dentist will also examine the tissues inside of your mouth, tongue, and bit. The dentist will also take x-rays when necessary to determine any changes or movement in your teeth between visits.
Once all of these parts of the exam have been completed, your dentist and hygienist will discuss with you any concerns they might have found and need for future procedures such as filling or root canals. They will also discuss with you the proper steps and techniques for maintaining good oral health and preventing oral health issues in the future.