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 Auburn Hills area? Get more information at https://www.smilefreshdentalauburnhills.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Auburn Hills, MI.
Dental cleanings are one of the most important parts of maintaining good oral health, but few people know how often they should schedule them. It's important to know this information so that you can keep your smile healthy and strong well into the future.Most dentists will recommend going in for a dental cleaning every six…
A general dentist will tell you all of the benefits of flossing on a regular basis. Flossing should be a very important part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth is the first round of defense in fighting tooth decay but do not underestimate the value of flossing. When you get into the habit…
Tooth decay is one of the most common oral health concerns that general dentistry offices deal with. The good news is that there are effective and minimally invasive ways to treat most cases of tooth decay, and patients can prevent tooth decay from developing through good oral hygiene practices and regular dental cleanings.Tooth decay is…
Oral hygiene protects your teeth and other oral tissues from decay and infection. This includes brushing and flossing daily. Dental professionals also recommend visiting the general dentistry office for dental examinations and cleanings at least twice a year to maintain excellent oral health.Oral hygiene is critical to one's overall health and wellbeing. Untreated oral illnesses…
A general dentist will tell you all of the benefits of flossing on a regular basis. Flossing should be a very important part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth is the first round of defense in fighting tooth decay but do not underestimate the value of flossing. When you get into the habit…
A broken tooth might not seem like a big deal if it is only a minor break, but it still requires treatment. This is because broken teeth cause more damage than simply ruining the appearance of a person’s smile. The damage typically removes portions of the outer surface of teeth, called enamel, which protects the…