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What You Need to Know About Dental Exams

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When you schedule a checkup, it will include a dental exam. During the dental exam, your dentist in Red Deer will assess the condition of your teeth and gums. The majority of adult and child patients should visit a dental clinic every six months. However, if you have specific oral issues such as gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend more frequent visitation. Regular oral exams are extremely important for protecting your oral health and the integrity of your smile. When oral health problems are not treated quickly they can worsen and become painful.

Dental exams in Red Deer are performed by a dentist and dental hygienist. Your dentist has special training to treat and care for your teeth and gums. A dental hygienist is a health care professional as well who has received professional training to clean your teeth and help you maintain healthy oral habits.

What is the Purpose of a Dental Exam?

Dental exams are performed to detect tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues early on when they are less difficult, expensive, and time-consuming to treat. Additionally, dental exams provide patients with a learning experience, as your dentist and dental hygienist can educate patients on the most effective strategies to care for their teeth.

Why Do I Need a Dental Exam?

As mentioned early, most patients should undergo a dental exam in Red Deer every six months. With that said, if your gums are swollen, or if they bleed your dentist will usually want to see you more often. Some adult patients with gum disease may be required to visit their dentist three to four times per year. Visiting more frequently may help prevent serious gum disease known as periodontitis. Infection and tooth loss are both outcomes of periodontitis when left unaddressed.

Babies should visit a dentist in Red Deer within six months of the eruption of their first tooth or by the age of one. Following their first appointment, they should maintain exams every six months. Note, your dentist will make recommendations that are specific to each patient and their situation. For example, if your child has an issue with tooth development, your dentist in Red Deer could suggest more frequent visits.

What Does a Dental Exam Entail?

A dental exam will typically include cleaning and X-rays.

Cleaning:

The cleaning process involves:

1. You will take a seat in your dentist’s chair. They will shine a bright overhead light over you. Using small, dental tools your dental hygienist will clean your teeth and scrape off any plaque and tartar.

2. The hygienist will floss your teeth.

3. They will brush your teeth and use a special electric toothbrush.

4. A fluoride treatment may be applied to your teeth; this mineral can prevent tooth decay.

5. The hygienist at the dental clinic near you may suggest some proper brushing and flossing techniques.

X-rays:

The X-ray process involves:

1. A lead apron, which is a thick covering that is placed over your chest. An additional covering may be placed over your neck, to protect your body from radiation.

2. You will bite down on a small piece of plastic.

3. A scanner will be placed outside your mouth and a picture will be taken.

4. This process may be repeated, for different areas of your mouth.

The Dental Checkup:

The dental checkup process involves:

1. Your dentist in Red Deer will look at your X-rays.

2. Examine your teeth and gums to see if they are healthy.

3. Check your bite (the way the upper and lower teeth fit together).

4. Check for oral cancer.

If it has been more than six months since your last dental exam in Red Deer, contact our dental clinic near you today!

Request an Appointment with Our Red Deer Dental Office