3 Benefits of Routine Dental Checkups with Our Lenoir Dentist
To maintain optimum oral health, it’s recommended that patients visit a local dentist office at least once per year. Thorough cleanings and X-rays are some of the basic services offered in routine dental exams. Patients can also discuss some cosmetic treatment options that improve aesthetics of damaged or unsightly teeth.
Types of X-rays
During routine dental exams, multiple types of X-rays may be performed to diagnose any problems with the teeth and gums. Bite-wing X-rays are typically used to check some of the largest teeth including the molars and bicuspids. Such X-rays are effective at detecting decay in the upper parts of teeth. For a more detailed view of teeth, a general dentist could use Periapical X-rays. Such an imaging technology scans the entire length of a given tooth from the crown to the root. Periapical X-rays often detect problems that require root canal treatment. For example, these X-rays provide clear views of infections in the jaw bone and nerve endings surrounding teeth.
Dental Cleaning
A simple checkup at a local dentist office comes with a comprehensive cleaning. General dentists and oral hygienists are trained to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of teeth and along the gum lines. Such substances often lead to tooth decay and gingivitis if they accumulate excessively. Capable of generating powerful vibrations and pulses, an ultrasonic instrument is commonly used to loosen up tartar and plaque. A simple metallic pick is then used to gently scrape off any particles that remain stuck to the teeth and gums. After a dental cleaning, the tooth enamel may appear significantly brighter in texture without any whitening treatment. However, there may be some temporary bleeding in the gums especially in patients who have early stages of gingivitis.
Treatment Recommendations
The main purpose of a dental checkup is to diagnose any issues that require prompt treatment. For example, minor cavities and dental caries can be handled with basic amalgam or composite fillings. Based on X-rays and physical examination, dentists could also recommend some procedures that would require multiple visits after a routine appointment. Cracked and chipped teeth can only be fixed with cosmetic treatment such as the installation of crowns, bridges and veneers. Extraction of severely damaged teeth is perhaps the best solution if patients cannot afford to pay for certain restorative services. However, empty tooth sockets from extractions can be unsightly and lead to infections and problems with speech.
Contact our Lenoir dentist today to schedule a dental checkup.