9 Things Your Dentist Does at Your Checkups

Do you know everything your dentist checks for during your biannual appointments? Along with cleaning and cavity prevention, the importance of routine dental checkups is due to more factors than you may think. Continue reading for more information on what happens at these appointments and how your dentist uses them to ensure that your mouth remains as healthy as possible.

#1: Oral Cancer Screening

Catching oral cancer in its early stages gives you a better chance of treating it. During these checkups, your dentist will do a thorough exam of your neck, lips, head, and mouth to ensure that there aren’t any signs of oral cancer present.

#2: Salivary Gland Evaluation

Saliva coats the mouth to help it remain moist and wash away bacteria and food particles as well as prevent plaque buildup. When salivary glands are not functioning properly, this makes you more susceptible to bad breath, cavities, and infection. If your dentist notes any abnormal mouth dryness, they will implement a treatment plan to keep these issues from developing.

#3: Tongue Examination

Your dentist will closely examine your tongue to make sure it’s a good size and texture. This allows them to determine if you have an infection, vitamin deficiency, or other issues.

#4: Teeth Inspection

Using a small mirror, a dental explorer, and other tools, your dentist will examine your teeth and search for cavities, issues with your tooth enamel, or any other dental problems.

#5: Bite Inspection

Straight teeth are for more than just aesthetic purposes. They also prevent premature tooth wear, TMJ issues, make for a proper bite, and can even help with spinal misalignment issues. Your dentist may recommend orthodontics to correct a misaligned bite and fix these concerns.

#6: Tonsil Examination

A thorough inspection of your throat will be done to look for signs of swelling or infection. Tonsils that are inflamed or swollen may be a sign of tonsillitis, which can happen as a result of measles or a range of other health issues.

#7: Oral Hygiene Analysis

During your checkup, you’ll be asked about your oral hygiene routine. An exam will be done to determine the state of your mouth, and your dentist will share tips on how to brush and floss better if there are areas for improvement.

#8: Gum Examination

Puffy, bleeding, red, tender, swollen, or receding, gums can all be signs of gum disease. If there are large pockets where the gums meet the teeth, the gum disease has already progressed to a more serious stage. Your dentist will lookout for these signs and administer treatment if necessary.

#9: TMJ Assessment

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, is responsible for jaw movement. Issues with the TMJ can result in pain, joint locking, discomfort, and issues chewing. If issues are identified, the necessary steps will be taken to prevent arthritis, injury, teeth grinding, and connective tissue diseases.

Needs vary from patient to patient, so biannual exams are an important part of keeping your mouth, gums, and jaw as healthy as possible. Make sure to keep up with these appointments so you can maintain a beautiful, well-functioning smile!

About the Practice

If you live in the Houston area and have been on the lookout for a dentist who can provide you and your family with quality care you can trust, you’ve come to the right place. The Castleberry Center offers a variety of treatment options for patients of all ages and takes pride in doing whatever they can to help you maintain a bright, healthy smile. Call them at (281) 320-9600 or visit their website to learn more about the importance of routine dental checkups or to schedule an appointment today.