What Does A Dental Checkup Look For?
We want to see our patients about once every six months for a checkup. This visit is essential for keeping smiles healthy and bright, but what do we look for during your dental exam? In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist discusses the benefits of a checkup, and what happens if you skip these crucial visits!
Using Advanced Technology
The exam involves our team taking a close look at your smile, assessing the current state of your oral health and diagnosing possible signs of trouble before they put your smile at risk. In addition to a visual exam, we will employ advanced technology. Instead of traditional x-rays, we use a digital alternative that requires 90% less radiation and doesn’t need to be developed in harsh chemicals either. Instead, these highly detailed images will be available instantly chairside, so we can walk you through the diagnostic process. We also use intraoral cameras to see close up and detailed pictures of the surfaces of your teeth and gums. With these options, we can offer a diagnosis with accuracy and precision!
Common Oral Health Issues
We will look for the earliest signs of demineralization, so we can address cavities before your teeth begin to ache. We also look for infections. The gums will be examined to look for the early signs of gingivitis and gum disease, so we can manage the disease and prevent tooth loss. The surfaces of the teeth will be examined for signs of wear and friction that could indicate TMJ disorder and bruxism. For adults, we will screen for oral cancer, and for kids, we will make sure baby teeth are falling out as they should, and that permanent teeth are erupting properly.
Oral Cancer Screenings
We want to really take time and talk about the importance of an oral cancer screening at least once a year. Oral cancer is treatable in 80% of cases in which it is caught early. But since it is rarely caught early, it has a high mortality rate, with 50% of those diagnosed succumbing to the disease in only five years. Our screening can identify possible cancerous and precancerous areas, so biopsies can be ordered and if necessary, you can begin treatment early! So don’t put off your next checkup and cleaning visit, make sure you attend!
If you have any questions, then give us a call today.
Ready to Schedule Your Next Visit?
We want to provide a thorough dental checkup for your family. If you have any questions regarding our checkup and cleaning visits, or if you would like to schedule a consultation today, please contact Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.