Keeping Smiles Bright: The Importance of Dental Exams and Cleanings
Dental exams and cleanings form key components of preventive dentistry. Oral health is an important aspect of your overall well-being. Any problem in your mouth can easily spread to other body systems. The good news is this can be prevented by a proper oral hygiene regimen that must be followed religiously. But this may not be sufficient owing to the busy and unhealthy lifestyle that you lead. You may require professional care by expert dentists and oral hygienists.
Why are dental exams crucial for preventive dentistry?
A dental exam is a physical assessment of your oral cavity to detect problems related to your teeth, gums, jaw, and throat. A dental exam is crucial for preventive dentistry since it:
Detects tooth decay and cavities: All the tooth surfaces will be checked for any pits, fissures, or prominent cavities using special dental instruments. Decay usually forms due to bacterial infiltration and plaque adherence.
Prevents gum disease or detects it at an early stage: Your dentist will examine your gums to check for any redness, tenderness, or the presence of gingival pockets. These mark the early signs of periodontal disease.
Detects early signs of oral cancer: Your dentist will check your lips, tongue, inner cheek lining, throat, gums, jaws, neck, and face for signs of any oral cancer.
What is the role of professional dental cleaning in enhancing oral health?
Professional dental cleanings are procedures that help clean your teeth and gums to prevent or eliminate increased bacterial and plaque accumulation. Insufficient oral hygiene has been linked to several serious illnesses like diabetes, and heart disease.
Professional dental cleanings are important because:
- Stubborn stains and tooth discoloration can be easily removed leaving you with a brighter smile.
- Getting your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist can prevent gum disease, which leads to early tooth loss.
- Oral cancer can be detected early during routine cleaning, enabling early treatment and management.
- Getting your teeth cleaned can reduce your chances of potentially deadly heart attacks and strokes.
- Early signs of problems such as broken fillings and fractures can be detected.
- They can assess areas that are not possible through regular brushing and flossing.
- Such procedures help you get familiarized with the dentist to prevent dental anxiety and fear
Get your mouth examined regularly and cleaned through professional dental specialists such as oral hygienists to help prevent oral problems like tooth decay and gum disease. These prevailing diseases can wreak havoc and negatively impact your oral form, function, and aesthetics. Schedule your dental appointment at least once in six months for improved oral health.