What To Expect in a Regular Dental Exam and Cleaning

What To Expect in a Regular Dental Exam and Cleaning

Mar 10, 2022

Even with good at-home dental hygiene, regular dental exams and cleanings are essential to maintain good oral and overall health. According to dental experts, an individual with good oral health should schedule at least two dental exams and cleanings per year. If you have an existing dental issue or are at a higher risk of developing dental problems, you may need more than two dental exams per year. For dental exams and cleaning in Dallas, TX, contact Trinity Dental Loft.

When looking to schedule a dental exam, it’s crucial that you find a dentist who you’re comfortable working with. This will make the sessions comfortable and more fruitful. Once you identify a good dentist, the next step is to schedule a check-up as soon as possible.

What Happens During Dental Exams and Cleanings?

If it’s your first meeting with the dentist, they will take a few minutes to learn about your health history, both oral and overall body health. They may ask you about any oral conditions, medication, existing restorations, and much more. If you’re on a subsequent visit, your dentist will also review your current health.

Make sure you tell them if your health status has changed, regardless of how minor the change can be. After that, the dentist will begin the physical exam. It’s worth noting that the procedures used during the exam might vary from patient to patient or office to office.

  • Oral Exam

The dentist will begin the exam by checking your oral structures for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral conditions. They may look for signs such as plaque and tartar buildup, inflamed gums, dark spots on the teeth, and much more. The primary reason for a dental exam is to identify and treat dental issues as soon as possible.

If necessary, the dentist may take x-rays to have a detailed understanding of your mouth. Furthermore, some dentist offers oral cancer screening. The dentist checks the patient’s jaw, tongue, cheeks, roof, floor of the mouth, neck, throat, and gums for early signs of oral cancer. The dentist is likely to look for signs such as:

  • Lumps or rough spots
  • White or red sores or spots
  • Numbness, tenderness, or pain in the mouth
  • Difficulty with oral function such as chewing and swallowing
  • Bleeding sores

The good thing about oral cancer is that it’s treatable if diagnosed early. If you are at a high risk of developing oral cancer, you should discuss with your dentist to have regular oral cancer screening. Signs you might need routine screening include:

  • You smoke and drink alcohol
  • You have unhealthy or poor feeding habits
  • Family history of oral cancer
  • Dental Cleaning

After the exam, the dentist begins the cleaning process. The cleaning may vary depending on the results of the exam. For instance, if you have gum disease, the dentist may perform scaling and root planing. To remove the tartar and plaque buildup, the dentist uses a special tool called a scaler. The scaler can either be manual or ultrasonic. The dentist then flosses the teeth to remove any leftover plaque or tartar.

  • Teeth Polishing

After cleaning, the dentist uses a handheld electric tool and a special toothpaste to get rid of stains. The teeth are then polished. If the patient has stubborn stains, the dentist may recommend teeth whitening.

  • Fluoride Treatment

Some dentists include fluoride treatment as part of their dental exams and cleanings. The dentist puts a fluoride gel inside a mouthpiece and gives it to the patient to wear.

  • Results

Before releasing you, the dentist will take a few minutes to discuss the findings. If they discover any signs of oral problems, they will create a treatment plan. If you need further help, the dentist will refer you to a specialist.

Do Dental Exams and Cleanings Hurt?

A patient’s experience in a dental exam may vary depending on the procedures carried out. For instance, a patient who undergoes root planing and scaling is likely to feel more discomfort after the exam than a patient who doesn’t undergo that procedure.

Generally, dental exams and cleanings are painless and usually very quick. You should notify your dentist if you experience any disturbing side effects such as pain, swelling, and bleeding. For an emergency dentist in Dallas, contact Trinity Dental Loft.

Caring for Your Mouth

To maintain good oral health, you must also practice good at-home dental habits. These include:

  • Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue gently with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid abrasive dental products.
  • Floss daily.
  • Use fluoride-based toothpaste.
  • Replace your toothbrush every three months.
  • Eat healthier and hydrate well. If possible, avoid sugary foods and beverages. If you must take them, brush or rinse your teeth after.
  • Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods.
  • Avoid tobacco and alcoholic products.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you looking for a dental exams and cleanings dentist in Dallas, TX, 75208? Contact Trinity Dental Loft.

Call Now Book Now
Click to listen highlighted text!