When you visit the dentist for your annual dental check-up, what are they looking at? It's important to know because it can help guide your oral health care decisions. During a dental exam, dentists look at many different things to get an accurate picture of your overall oral health. The following is a list of some everyday items that dentists will examine during a typical examination:
Dentists look at the color of both your teeth and gums to determine any changes in their shade. If they notice that either one has changed, they may want to look with a periodontal probe instrument (like an explorer used during dental exams).
Dentists will also look at the tissue that makes up your lips, cheeks, and tongue. They check for any signs of disease or infection in these areas as well as your gums. During a dental check-up, they will also investigate the back of your mouth using a mirror and instrument called an endoscope or otoscope (depending on which area is being examined).
Another important aspect of your dental check-up is checking how your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite down. Dentists examine how your jaw closes to ensure there isn't any pain or discomfort, see if there are any spaces between your teeth if any teeth have shifted out of their normal position, etc.
Enamel is a protective outer layer of your teeth that helps to keep the sensitive inner layers from being damaged. However, this thin layer can wear away over time, opening an opportunity for cavity-causing bacteria to enter and cause tooth decay. To check for cavities, dentists will examine this area with a light or dental mirror. This is also the perfect time for them to take a sample of your enamel (known as an "eruption").
Another common reason people visit their dentist is that they are experiencing pain in one or both sides of their mouth. Painful teeth and gums can be caused by several different things, including tooth decay, gum disease, and even teeth grinding. Dentists can tell if you are experiencing jaw pain because your muscles will be sore in the area where it hurts (some places may also appear red).
Dentists use dental x-rays to see what's happening below the surface of your gums. This can help them identify disease, tooth decay, or other problems that might be difficult to see with the naked eye (for example, if you have a deep bite where teeth do not meet correctly). Dental X-rays are also helpful because they allow dentists to detect any signs of infection in your jawbone (periodontitis). Dental x-rays identify problems that might be difficult to see with the naked eye and signs of dental disease.
Request an appointment here: https://www.angelafennell.com or call Angela S. Fennell DMD, PC at (256) 660-3089 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Checkup in Huntsville, AL.
Dental cavities and gum diseases are the most widespread diseases among humans. Thankfully, they can be prevented easily. Dental cavities begin when the tooth enamel degrades, causing holes in the tooth.If neglected, the cavities worsen, and the tooth's structure becomes unstable. The infection can extend to the gums, tooth root, and jawbone. In worse cases,…
As a provider of dental exams in Huntsville, we are passionate about the oral health of our patients and the lifetime of their teeth. Other areas of your body may not require regular medical care unless there is a problem. Other than routine screenings, most people can go years without visiting their doctor. Your oral…
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on keeping your mouth healthy in order to save you money. It starts with you taking good care of your mouth at home by brushing at least two times per day, flossing daily, and avoiding things that can damage teeth. Preventive dentistry also includes procedures performed…
Preventive dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on protecting your mouth against common dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. It include simple things that you can do independently, like practicing oral hygiene, and procedures performed by dentists, like dental cleanings.Taking good care of your mouth makes you less likely to develop…
Have you considered turning to cosmetic dentistry services to restore your smile? If you do not like the way your teeth look, there are solutions. Your cosmetic dentist has multiple options to help you feel good about the way you look once more. You no longer have to hide your face or avoid being around…
A dental bridge can help restore your dental health and appearance. Tooth loss can cause more dental problems. Replacing the missing teeth can restore your smile and improve your dental health. Getting this dental restoration might be the tooth loss solution you need. Here are the three basic dental bridge benefits you must consider.Losing at…