Dental Exam
Arlington, TX
 A dental exam is an evaluation of your teeth and gums. During your exam, you will receive a cleaning, x-ray, and checkup. Dental exams inform patients on the status of their teeth, this way you can remain educated about how to care for your teeth and their condition specifically. Oral health problems can become serious and painful if treatment is not prompt.
A dental exam is required every six months in order to protect your oral health. If the results of your dental exam include a condition like development problems, cavities, or gingivitis, you will be able to immediately make an appointment for treatment. If you are in need of a dentist, are experiencing pain or discomfort, or have not visited the dentist in over six months, our team at Rush Creek Dentistry can help. Our expert dentists will make treatment feel easy, determining a treatment plan that best suits your schedule.
What Will Happen During My Dental Exam?
An x-ray is taken so that your dentist may check on the roots of your teeth and your jawbone. X-rays can show cavities, gum disease, and bone loss. During this x-ray, your dentist will place a lead apron covering on your body to protect it from radiation. The doctor or hygienist will stand back behind a protective barrier to shield themselves from radiation. While you bite down on a small piece of plastic, the scanner can be placed to take photos. Biting down in different areas allows for x-rays of the whole mouth.
A dental hygienist will perform the cleaning portion of the exam. During this cleaning, the hygienist will scrape off plaque and tartar. Plaque is bacteria that sticks to teeth like a film. Tartar is hardened plaque turned into hard mineral deposits that can only be removed by a dental professional. Afterward the dental hygienist will brush and floss your teeth, at this point they may give you some tips on proper brushing and flossing techniques. Now your hygienist can apply a fluoride gel or foam treatment to your teeth. The mineral fluoride helps sustain your enamel's health, preventing tooth decay that leads to cavities. Fluoride brushings are a more common treatment in pediatric dentistry, as children are more susceptible to caries than adults.
Now the dentist can provide your checkup. Your dentist will: examine your teeth and gums, check your x-rays, check your bite, and also check for oral cancer.
When Should I Bring My Child For An Exam?
The very first dental exam appointment for a child should occur when they are one year old. Afterward, visits should occur every six months. If there are concerns like tooth or gum decay for a child, visits to their dentist should occur more regularly. If there are problems with tooth development your doctor will be able to provide treatment early on, preventing more serious issues in the future. This is why frequent visits to the dentist are especially important during childhood. Anxieties about going to the dentist or receiving dental treatment can be normal. If your child feels this way, let them know that the dentist is a safe space and that visits to the dentist are a priority in order to maintain health. Please let Rush Creek Dentistry be your trusted care provider. Call us now at 682-277-0535 to schedule your next dental exam. |
