The Role of Dental Exams in Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. However, the cleaning process isn’t just limited to removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Physical dental examinations are also essential in identifying and treating dental problems early on and avoiding future complications from developing.
Are you looking for a new dentist in West Chester, PA? Contact West Chester preventive dentist, Dr. Ron Briglia at Briglia Dental Group today by dialing (610) 615 0160 if you’re a new patient or (610) 692 4440 if you’re a returning patient. Schedule your dental checkup and get started on the road to better dental health.
What Is a Dental Exam?
A dental examination, or dental checkup, is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health. It’s performed to help maintain good dental health, detect issues early, and prevent serious problems from occurring. During a dental checkup, our dentist or dental hygienists will check for any signs of decay, gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. They’ll also examine your face, neck, and mouth for abnormalities, such as lumps or bumps. If they find anything concerning, they’ll recommend a course of treatment.
The Benefits of Dental Exams
There are numerous benefits of undergoing a dental checkup during your routine visits, including:
- Early Detection of Dental Problems: A dental exam can help identify issues at an early stage. Early detection can help prevent serious problems from developing, save you money, and reduce the need for more complex and invasive treatments.
- Prevention of Tooth Loss: Regular dental exams can help prevent tooth loss. Your dentist can detect and treat gum disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss.
- Oral Cancer Detection: A dental exam can help detect oral cancer in its early stages. Early detection can increase the chances of successful treatment.
- Improve Overall Health: Good oral health is essential for overall health. Regular dental exams can help maintain good dental health, helping prevent other health issues.
The Dental Exam Process
During a regular dental checkup, patients should expect the following:
- Examination: Your West Chester dentist will examine your mouth, teeth, gums, and other oral tissues for any signs of dental issues.
- Teeth Cleaning: Your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth, removing any plaque or tartar buildup.
- Dental X-rays: If necessary, your dentist may take X-rays to check for any issues not visible during the examination. X-rays are typically taken once a year.
- Treatment: If your dentist finds any issues, they’ll recommend the appropriate course of treatment.
How Often Do I Need Dental Exams?
The frequency of dental checkups depends on your individual needs. In general, it’s recommended that you visit your West Chester preventive dentist for a checkup every six months. People with a history of dental problems may need to visit Dr. Briglia more frequently. That way, with regular visits, he can monitor any ongoing conditions and treat problems before they cause further complications.