Fretting about what a dentist does can give you anxiety about visiting them. Research shows that a huge population of people all over the world would rather not see a dentist if they do not have a serious dental issue. Lack of knowledge is what makes most people not want to visit their dentist. To maintain a healthy mouth, flossing, and brushing is not always enough. It is important to visit your dentist on a regular basis for preventive checkups and here is what you can expect.
Oral examination
During a routine checkup, a dental hygienist can do a number of things, but only a dentist can perform more advanced tasks such as cavity filling. While attending to you, your dentist will be looking for basic oral concerns and areas that need addressing such as:
- Diagnosis of decay- Your dentist will look for visible signs of tooth decay and if there is any softening on your tooth enamel. Often, this is an indicator of cavity in its early stages.
- Bite evaluation- During an oral exam, your dentist will evaluate your bite and look for any irregularities that could compromise your dental health. At the same time, your dentist will closely monitor the development and eruption pattern of your child or children’s teeth so that they can refer you to an orthodontic in good time if it is necessary.
- Pocket measurements- In order to establish the health of your supporting bone and gums, your dentist will use a periodontal probe to measure the pockets around your teeth. This measurement determines whether you have lost any bone due to gum disease.
Fluoride treatment
Most dental associations recommend topical fluoride treatments for children to strengthen their tooth enamel especially during the years they are most susceptible to cavities. The dentists will usually do this after cleaning the teeth and the frequency usually depends on your child’s risk for cavities. Fluoride treatments are helpful for adults dealing with situations that increase their chances for tooth decay as well.
Dental X-rays
Your dentist in Mississauga will take routine dental x-rays when you visit them. These x-rays are necessary because they reveal cavities between teeth, the height, and health of the supporting bone and the position of developing teeth in children. There are different types of x-rays but your dentist will decide which one will give the best diagnostic view and how many you will require. Usually, a dental hygienist will take the x-ray.
Polishing and scaling
It is a recommendation to have your teeth cleaned on a regular basis to prevent gum disease and to keep your gum tissue healthy as well. Your dentist in Mississauga will use special tools to scale off any accumulated and hardened plaque and then polish your teeth with a special paste to eliminate any stains on your teeth. Many people will agree that the squeaky-clean feeling in the mouth after a teeth-cleaning session is amazing.
Oral cancer screening
For successful oral cancer treatment, early detection is crucial. Dentists do screenings at each checkup visit. Your dentist will examine your lips, neck, head, and mouth tissue for any unusual symptoms or signs. Dentists are also encouraged to discuss the effects that tobacco and alcohol have to do with oral cancer so you can expect the same from your dentist.
Sealant application
It is a fact that most decay in both children and adults occurs on the chewing surface of back molars. As such, your dentist in Mississauga may suggest sealing of these teeth. The procedure is painless and simple and the sealant material that acts as a protective barrier against food particles and bacteria can last up to eight years.
Your dentist will also give home care instructions and will give instructions on proper flossing and brushing techniques. They will also advice on foods to avoid and better snacking choices as well as answer any questions you may have.
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