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Dental Exams

The importance of regular comprehensive dental examinations cannot be overstated. That’s because the health of your mouth, teeth, and gums is directly linked to your overall wellness.

For example, if your teeth are decayed, the bacteria that caused it can circulate via your bloodstream creating other serious health problems, such as heart disease and strokes. If you are over 40 and X-rays show signs of bone loss in your jaw, it may be an early sign you are developing osteoporosis elsewhere. If your gums bleed easily, it might indicate you have periodontitis, a leading cause of tooth loss.

For these and many other reasons, the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association both recommend dental checkups twice a year. Adults and children who are at risk for gum disease and tooth loss should visit more often.

What to expect during an exam

During your exam, we will look for signs of decay, cracked and loose teeth, leaky fillings, unusual wear and tear, damaged tooth restorations, and signs of gum or oral disease. We may also do a series of full-mouth X-rays to check for bone loss and abscesses. If we find problem areas, we will discuss further treatment options with you.

Remember, even if you follow the recommended program of twice daily brushing and flossing, you can still develop dental health problems. And as you age, the likelihood of them occurring increases dramatically. So be sure to make regular dental exams part of the overall health plan for you and your family.

To learn more about healthy oral habits that can give you a lifetime of beautiful teeth, visit our Total Dental Fitness page.

If you would like more information about dental exams, call 936-756-3611 or send us an e-mail. To schedule an appointment, go to Make An Appointment now.

Source: American Dental Association (www.ada.org)