Are Oral Exams Really That Important?

While many people write off regularly getting an oral exam as an unnecessary precaution, the maintenance and health of your teeth depend greatly on it. Plenty of people believe that their teeth will remain healthy without the assistance of a dentist and that oral examinations are simply a redundancy. In reality, regular at-home maintenance of your oral hygiene is not enough to prevent oral degradation, and oral exams can greatly improve the longevity of your smile.

Why oral exams are important

Oral examinations do much more than help your teeth stay healthy, although helping your teeth stay healthy is a worthy enough cause on its own. Regular oral exams can provide you valuable information on your bite, the condition of your teeth and gums, and what you can do to keep your teeth healthier over time. Your dentist will also perform routine cleanings during an oral exam, helping to remove excess tartar and bacterial buildup that may impact the health of your teeth over time.

Oral exams can also uncover disease and non-oral health problems. Signs and symptoms of diabetes, lupus and even rheumatoid arthritis can show up in your mouth and can be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition. By visiting your dentist for regular oral exams, you may be able to stave off both oral health issues and gain better insight into your overall health and condition.

What to expect during an oral exam and how to prepare

Once you understand the importance of regular oral exams, you will no doubt wish to make an appointment.

For a standard oral exam, there are a few common things you can definitely expect. First, your dentist will evaluate your overall dental health, examining your teeth for signs of decay, damage or cavities. Your dentist will also examine your jaw, neck and head for signs of infection, disease, bite problems or irregular jaw movement.

Once you have been examined and the state of your teeth has been determined, your teeth will be cleaned. This is a chance for you to sit back and let a professional remove any buildup or tartar you might have. By cleaning, polishing, flossing and assessing your teeth, your dentist can both help you maintain a healthy mouth and give you tips for the best way to handle oral hygiene at home. Your dentist may recommend new products, better methods of cleaning or diet changes to keep your teeth feeling and looking amazing.

The bottom line

Once your oral exam is complete, your dentist will discuss the results with you. If your dentist believes you are at a higher risk for dental disease, they may recommend more frequent visits, or help you create a new at-home cleaning routine. Follow up visits, treatment recommendations and the scheduling of future procedures will all follow your visit, and you can now rely on your dental office to help you stay on top of your oral health.

Request an appointment here: https://www.gablesexceptionaldentistry.com or call Gables Exceptional Dentistry at (305) 203-4132 for an appointment in our Coral Gables office.

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