A routine dental exam can help prevent dental cavities by detecting the early signs of enamel decay. If necessary, the dentist can take action to strengthen enamel so a cavity does not develop during a routine dental exam. This article provides a more in-depth review of the purpose and benefits of regular dental visits for cavity prevention.
A routine dental exam is encouraged every four to six months. Patients that do not visit the dentist regularly for preventive purposes are at a much higher risk of a range of oral health concerns, including cavities, periodontal disease, and more.
A routine dental exam is a dental visit designed to check on the status of the patient's oral health. It is used as a form of preventive dentistry, and the goal is to detect any issues as early as possible to avoid worsening concerns that could be costly and invasive to address with restorative care. The visit typically involves an oral examination, during which the dentist thoroughly checks every tooth and area of the mouth. Dental x-rays may also be ordered for a more comprehensive examination of the patient’s oral health.
A routine dental exam allows a licensed dentist to check on the status of dental enamel, which is the outermost layer of teeth. Cavities form when this outer layer of teeth becomes worn down by acidic attacks, which are brought on by a combination of bacteria and food and drink particles such as sugar. If enamel is weakened, then the dentist may recommend a dental cleaning and/or a fluoride treatment plan to restrengthen and remineralize the enamel before cavities form.
A routine dental exam not only helps prevent the formation of dental cavities but can also help with the early detection and prevention of various additional concerns, including periodontal disease, bruxism, and cosmetic issues. Many routine dental exams also involve a cleaning to help prevent many of these more common oral health problems.
Although a routine dental exam and cleaning is a great way to protect your smile from cavities and other oral health concerns, the majority of work takes place at home between dental visits. It is important for patients to implement a consistent oral care regimen that involves brushing and flossing regularly. It is also encouraged to check for any signs of weakened enamel or cavities as well, such as a discoloration of the enamel, gum discoloration, and gum swelling.
Routine dental exams with a licensed dentist are perhaps the best way to detect the earliest signs of cavities and help prevent cavities from developing. However, there are additional tips to implement to help prevent cavities.
Dentists offer certain services that are designed to reduce the overall risk of cavities. For patients that are at a higher risk of developing cavities, such as those who have a personal or family history of cavities, it can help to have additional prevention treatments.
Notably, this includes fluoride treatment, which is provided in the form of a mouthwash. This is helpful to reverse the earliest stages of cavities (i.e. weakened enamel) before holes officially develop in teeth. Dental sealants are also an option to help prevent cavities. Sealants are plastic coatings that are placed over the chewing surface of molars and premolars. They are more common for younger patients, but they work well for adults as well.
Sugar, starch, and other carbohydrates are known to combine with bacteria that naturally occur inside the mouth and cause an acidic reaction, which breaks down the enamel and leads to cavities. In addition to keeping the mouth as clean as possible, consuming fewer carbohydrates can be an effective cavity prevention strategy. Additionally, tobacco products and alcohol can also have a detrimental impact on enamel and increase the risk of cavities as well.
Has it been more than six months since your last dental visit? If so, call our dental practice today to schedule a routine dental exam and teeth cleaning to protect your smile from cavities and other oral health concerns.
Are you considering a dental exam in the Houston area? Get more information at https://www.thegalleryofsmiles.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Houston, TX.
If you need to get your teeth cleaned regularly, you probably know that the dental cleaning process itself isn’t exactly fun. Still, it’s worth enduring these uncomfortable moments in order to protect your smile and keep your mouth clean and healthy. If you’re getting your teeth cleaned regularly or if you just want to learn…
Good oral habits include a dental exam once every six months. These routine checks are useful tools that help your dentist to keep tabs on your oral health. They help to prevent a range of dental problems, from cavities to tooth decay to gum disease.Dental exams allow for monitoring and early detection of issues that…
Dentists advise every one of all ages to get a Dental Checkup twice a year, at the minimum. However, despite this recommendation, not everyone actually undergoes check-ups this frequently, which can be risky. While most people believe that at-home oral hygiene is enough to maintain good health, that is far from true. It is necessary…
When it comes to preventive dental care, the approach is two-fold. First, it involves going to the dentist for regular checkups and performing any recommended follow-up treatment. Second, good oral health habits are crucial for keeping the body in good working order. For people living with chronic conditions such as diabetes and osteoporosis, keeping up…
Dental implants are an option for people who need to replace one or more missing teeth. The process involves several steps during which a metal post is surgically mounted into the jaw. The replacement tooth or crown is then secured to the implant, holding the new tooth firmly in place.Missing teeth can have an adverse…
One of the requirements for a patient to be able to get a dental implants procedure is that the patient must have sufficient jaw bone to anchor the implant. Some patients who do not have adequate bone mass may be able to get implants by first having a bone graft procedure.A dental bone graft procedure…
