What Is a Family Dentist Exam Like

What Is a Family Dentist Exam Like from Dentistry for Woodstock in Woodstock, GARegular trips to the family dentist are essential for staying healthy. Ensuring that the mouth is in tip-top shape can aid the body in defending against harmful bacteria. Even with a good at-home oral health regimen, keeping up with regular exams as recommended is crucial to catching new developments sooner.

Why is dental health so important?

The body's immune system repels foreign invaders, such as viruses and bacteria. However, the immune system is not always able to fend off all attacks, and a person can become ill. Sometimes this is due to the way the harmful cells enter the body. The mouth can become an unwitting ally to bacteria if it is not well maintained.

When oral health is compromised by a condition such as gum disease, the pockets between the gum tissue and teeth allow an easy path for harmful bacteria to enter the body's bloodstream. While at-home dental health is crucial to keeping bacteria away, only a dental exam can find and fix certain oral health issues that put the body at risk for infection.

What to expect at a family dentist exam

Sometimes a person may stay away from regular dental care out of fear. This trepidation often can be resolved with better understanding of the common elements of a family dentist exam. Knowing what to expect can ease the mind of a nervous patient.

X-rays

One way a dentist can diagnose dental issues is through X-rays. These allow the provider a peek under the gums and inside teeth to find any underlying issues. Annual X-rays also help dentists keep track of the progression of things such as gum disease from year to year. Improvements in dental health can also show in follow-up visits.

Cleaning

A dental hygenist performs a basic cleaning of the teeth during a regular dental exam. The hygenist can spot areas of the mouth that need extra attention. Even performing twice-daily home cleanings does not completely keep teeth free of plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque is sticky and helps attract new bacteria to the surface of the tooth. Tartar is a hard shell that plaque eventually becomes when left on the surface. According to the Mayo Clinic, tartar can lead to gum disease, so having the teeth cleaned by a hygenist effectively removes trouble spots.

Exam

The dentist reviews a patient's X-rays and the dental hygienist's observations before examining the mouth. During this time, the dentist notes imperfections in the teeth and any indications that the gums are infected. At this time, the dentist also goes over any findings such as cavities or problems with roots. If required, a treatment plan is recommended for rectifying any critical issues.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Family Dentist in Woodstock, GA

Conclusion

Including a trip to the family dentist among the schedule for regular medical exams can help keep your body healthy. Allowing a dental practitioner a glimpse into the mouth can not only diagnose any developing gum disease or other issues but also keep your smile bright for many years to come.

Request an appointment or call Dentistry for Woodstock at 770-238-1437 for an appointment in our Woodstock office.

Recent Posts

3 Common Reasons To See A Family Dentist

A unique benefit of choosing a family dentist is that this professional care for the oral health of your entire household during every stage of life. The dental needs of children, teenagers, and adults vary, so a family dentist who can offer a comprehensive range of services for every family member is a valuable asset.Family…

How Often Should You See The Family Dentist

According to the American Dental Association, little more than half of Americans visit a family dentist twice yearly, which is the frequency with which the ADA recommends checkups. This means that an overwhelming percentage — more than 40% — only schedule a visit when something is wrong. Individuals who fall into the latter category may…

A Family Dentist Discusses Healthy Living Techniques

Lifestyle choices are as important to good oral and dental health as visiting the family dentist twice per year. Establishing healthy day-to-day routines protects the teeth and gums and keeps mouth chemistry balanced. Develop good practices in children at a young age to help build habits that can last a lifetime. Making changes at any…

Recent Posts

Denture Adjustments May Be Needed With New Dentures

Denture Adjustments May Be Needed With New Dentures

You might not expect to need denture adjustments after being fitted for a brand-new set of dentures. However, even a new appliance might need adjusting early on.During the first month, it is essential to pay careful attention to the comfort and feel of your new dental prosthetic. It is normal to experience an adjustment period…

Denture Adjustments: Your Mouth Changes Shape As You Age

Denture Adjustments: Your Mouth Changes Shape As You Age

You will need one or more denture adjustments as your jawbone and gums change. This is why dentists and prosthodontists recommend regular checkups — to track the gradual changes in your mouth. The type of adjustment that your dentures need will depend on their structural soundness. It will also depend on the difference between the…