Expertly maintaining oral hygiene is a gateway to larger health behaviors and practices. A simple habit of brushing twice daily itself extends to many other habits – from ensuring that you do associated practices like flossing to also other habits like exercise. After all, you’re building a conscious link between what you do and how your health is maintained!
However, oral health is such that its complexity may often be missed out. Remember, it’s not just the teeth that you seek to protect, but also gums, bone health, and overall facial structure. Proactive individuals looking to maintain a higher level of dental health are sure to find themselves seeking regular dental exams! This process is all about detecting and preventing serious issues before they become a larger concern. For many residents, simply seeking an expert dental practice in Southfield can prove to be a game-changing decision.
Dental experts have at their disposal various dental procedures and screening tools to check for dental concerns. Here’s what they can do…
Examination of Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, or cavities, is one of the most common dental problems. It occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and produces acids that erode the enamel. Regular dental exams include a thorough examination of your teeth for signs of decay. Dentists use various tools to check for soft spots, discoloration, and other indicators of cavities.
Examination of Existing Restorations
Many individuals have dental restorations, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, or implants. These restorations require regular monitoring to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to function properly. During a dental exam, your dentist will check for any signs of wear, damage, or decay around the restorations.
Gum Disease Evaluation
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common yet preventable condition that affects the gums and bones supporting the teeth. It starts with gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen gums that bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss. A gum disease evaluation involves the measurement of gum pockets, possible inflammation, and any sign of bone loss.
Detecting Cysts and Bone Loss via Radiographs
Dental radiographs, or X-rays, are a crucial diagnostic tool that provides a detailed view of your teeth, bones, and surrounding tissues. These images allow dentists to detect cysts, bone loss, and other hidden issues that are not visible during a regular dental exam. Cysts can develop in the jawbone and, if left untreated, can lead to infection and damage to the surrounding bone and teeth. Dentists can immediately recommend interventions to deal with any detected concerns.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can affect any part of the mouth or throat. Early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine your mouth, throat, and surrounding areas for any signs of abnormal growth or lesions. While this examination is a visual inspection of tissue palpation and irregularities, it needs a keen and expert-backed eye to detect a concern.
Don’t be mistaken – while these additional screenings can identify deeper concerns, brushing and flossing regularly is an essential habit that should never be stopped. What dental exams achieve is checking for issues that are simply beyond your control. By proactively being on the lookout for such concerns, you ensure long-term quality of life without any adverse impact. It’s an exercise in negating difficult medical interventions and long recovery. So, schedule that dental exam and screen out potential dental issues before they become an issue!