The team here at Fort Bend Dental is committed to helping patients throughout the Missouri City area, offering state-of-the-art cosmetic and restorative dentistry treatments focused on wellness. While these procedures are helpful, we do believe in the basics, which is why we think regular dental exams are so important for having a healthy, beautiful smile for the years ahead.
The Basics Are Always Essential
When it comes to good dental health, you can't do wrong by sticking to the basics. That typically means addressing tooth decay and gum disease with a focus on preventative care. These are the cornerstones of general dentistry and routine dental visits, and they should never be taken for granted. Even though regular exams are done every six months, you should attend them regularly since a lot gets done during your visit.
X-rays and Advanced Diagnostics
During a routine dental exam, patients can expect to undergo x-rays and have basic diagnostics performed. This allows dentists to get a better look at the structures of your mouth, including the teeth, the root structure, the jaw joint, and so forth. Additional tools (such a intraoral cameras) can be used to enhance the ability to see different parts of your mouth as well.
Routine Cleanings
Another crucial part of a regular dental visit is the routine cleaning. This is when a dental hygienist and your dentist will perform a thorough polishing and flossing of your teeth. Your dentist may do a little bit of scraping around your teeth as well to get rid of minor tartar deposits (i.e., hardened dental plaque).
Checking Your Teeth and Gums
With your teeth clean and mouth fresh, your dentist will then check your teeth and gums carefully. This allows your dentist to note any cavities that may be forming as well as any issues with tooth discoloration or tooth damage. Lesions, discoloration, and other problems will be noted as they affect the gums as well.
Discussing Dental Health Concerns
If you have noticed any issues with tooth pain, clicking or locking of the jaw, dry mouth, bad breath, and so on, it's important that you bring these matters up with your dentist. Issues like these that seem minor may actually be the first signs of a more serious problem, and the only way you can have them addressed is to discuss them in person with your dentist.
Going Over Future Treatment Needs
If you require future dental treatments, such a basic filling of a cavity or more advanced orthodontic and oral surgery care, your routine checkup is a good time for these matters to get brought up. This will allow you and your dentist to go over risks and benefits, and to clear up any concerns that you may have about the forthcoming procedure.
Helpful Tips for Preventive Care
In addition to all of the above, a routine checkup is a great time for your dentist to offer some helpful tips for preventative dentistry and advanced dental care. This might mean pointing out issues with your brushing and flossing techniques, or recommending some ways to prevent serious dental problems based on your current concerns and needs.
Contact Fort Bend Dental
For more information about general dentistry and how our team can help you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible, be sure to contact our dental care center today. The team at Fort Bend Dental will work with you to enhance your smile.
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