Annual Exam

An annual dental exam is a thorough cleaning and checkup of your teeth, gums, and jaw. The dentist or dental hygienist will use special tools to check your teeth for problems like decay, plaque, and gingivitis. If a problem is found, it can be treated right away.

What Happens During An Annual Dental Exam?

During an annual dental exam, a dentist will examine the teeth for signs of decay and disease. The dentist will also examine the patient’s bite to determine whether it is aligned properly. If plaque or tartar is present on the teeth, the dentist may clean them during an exam. Additionally, X-rays may be used to detect any cavities that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Lastly, the dentist will evaluate the jaw and bone structure to ensure that there is not a condition present that could cause issues in the future. In some cases, patients will also receive professional teeth cleaning.

A dental exam is usually recommended at least once per year; however, some patients may need more frequent visits. This will depend on their oral health needs. For example, patients with periodontal disease may require more frequent visits in order to control the condition and prevent further damage from occurring. Patients who have bruxism, or nighttime tooth grinding, may also benefit from having a dental exam more frequently to check for potential damage to the teeth and mouth. A good rule of thumb is to visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup and professional teeth cleaning. Patients should also be sure to attend their regular cleanings and checkups in order to maintain good oral hygiene practices between appointments.

During your exam, your dentist or hygienist:

• Asks about your general health
• Examines your teeth, gums, and mouth
• Screens you for oral cancer
• Takes X-rays of your teeth
• Reviews your dental and medical history
• Discusses any concerns you may have
• Discusses your brushing and flossing habits

What Are The Benefits of An Annual Dental Exam?

There are a variety of benefits to scheduling regular dental exams with a trained and experienced dentist. Your mouth and teeth are unique from those of others, and only a dentist is trained to look for any issues or potential problems that may not present obvious symptoms in your day-to-day life. Scheduling an appointment for a regular dental checkup can save your teeth from serious problems that are costly and uncomfortable to repair. With routine cleanings and checkups, you can keep your teeth and smile healthy for a lifetime. Here are some of the main benefits you can receive with an annual checkup.

• Professional teeth cleanings. Even if you brush and floss your teeth every day, there are still places in the mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach. If plaque and tartar build-up in these areas, it can lead to decay and, eventually, gum disease. To prevent these problems from occurring, your dentist will thoroughly clean your mouth both above and below the gum line. This will remove harmful plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums before they have a chance to cause damage.
• Screening for oral cancer.Many dentists now offer screenings for oral cancer to check for potential issues as early as possible. When found early, oral cancer can be treated more effectively than if it is left to spread. The earlier it is caught, the more likely it is to be cured completely. During a routine oral examination, the dentist will examine the mouth for any lumps or other changes to identify any signs of oral cancer.
• Check for tooth decay. Tooth decay is one of the most common dental health problems, but it can be difficult for patients to notice it on their own. While cavities can sometimes be felt in the tooth, oftentimes, they form below the surface and cause no pain or discomfort to the patient. Regular checkups can help your dentist spot signs of tooth decay before they worsen and become painful.
• Reduce your risk for more serious problems in the future.By catching oral health concerns in their early stages, annual dental exams can help prevent the development of diseases into their advanced stages. 

Artisan Dental, located in Plymouth, MN, is equipped with the best dentists and modern amenities that enable the best dental care services for patients. Dial (763) 519-8880 and book an appointment with Dentist in Plymouth MN to get answers to all your dental-related questions and dental treatments.