Comprehensive Exam

Regular dental exams are vital, even though many of us might think that our teeth are in good condition. Comprehensive exams and prevention of oral diseases are the best possible care you can give your teeth. If oral problems are identified and addressed early, you can avoid more complicated treatments in the future.

 Some non-oral conditions display symptoms that appear in the mouth. A dental examination can reveal signs of iron and vitamin deficiencies or more severe conditions like cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancer, HIV, and glandular fever. Hence it is very vital that you visit your dentist at least once every six months to get your oral structures checked and cleaned. At TruCare Dental in Garland, Texas, we provide dental exams to keep your teeth and smile in peak condition.

Why Is Oral Health Important?

Poor oral health can lead to bacterial formations in the mouth, which multiply and combine with sugars from foods to create acids. Eventually, these acids attack the teeth causing cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and infections. Hence it becomes vital to undertake regular dental exams to protect your oral health and general wellbeing. 

The Dental Exam

During your dental exams, Dr. Truc Le will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the gums and teeth. We will visually look for chronic dental issues like tooth decay, cavities, gum infections, lesions for oral cancer, and damage or deterioration of previous dental restorations. In addition, we take routine X-rays to check for any underlying problems like hidden decay between the teeth, trauma to the jaws, problems with wisdom teeth, and gum disease.

After completing the dental exams, we will clean your teeth as well. The hardened plaque and tartar deposits will be removed from the teeth during the cleanings and polished. Finally, we take the time to explain the cause of any problems and make sure you are equipped with strategies at home that give you the best possible opportunity for a lifetime of excellent oral health.

A Beautiful Smile

Once the exam is complete, Dr. Truc Le will recommend the appropriate treatment plan to address your concerns. Treatment can be discussed to repair chipped, crooked, stained, and missing teeth as well as those teeth with tooth decay and gum disease. If you are particular about your smile, we recommend cosmetic procedures like teeth whitening and dental veneers to enhance your pearly whites. But you must be aware that before you opt for smile enhancement treatments, your mouth should be free of tooth decay and gum disorders.  

I Need A Complete Dental Check-up

A complete dental check-up is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and preventing future dental problems. It involves a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and overall oral cavity to ensure that everything is in good condition. Here's why and how you should get a complete dental check-up:

Why You Need a Complete Dental Check-Up

• Early Detection of Problems A comprehensive dental check-up allows your dentist to detect issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral infections. Catching these problems in the early stages makes treatment simpler, less invasive, and more affordable.

• Prevention of Future Issues Regular check-ups help prevent major dental issues from developing. For example, routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease or tooth decay. Your dentist can also provide preventive care, like fluoride treatments or dental sealants, to protect your teeth.

• Oral Cancer Screening A complete dental exam includes a screening for oral cancer. This is a crucial step because oral cancer can be life-threatening if not caught early. Dentists are trained to spot early signs, which may not be noticeable to the patient.

• Gum Health Monitoring Gum health is just as important as the health of your teeth. A thorough dental check-up includes an examination of your gums to detect early signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

• Maintaining Overall Health Oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Studies show that gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. A complete dental check-up helps reduce these risks by keeping your mouth healthy.

How to Get a Complete Dental Check-Up

• Find a Trusted Dentist Choose a reliable dentist in your area who offers complete dental exams. You can ask for recommendations from friends, family, or check online reviews to find a trusted dental provider.

• Schedule Regular Appointments It’s recommended to visit the dentist for a check-up every six months. Regular appointments help keep your oral health on track and allow your dentist to monitor any changes over time.

• What to Expect During the Check-Up

  • Visual Examination: Your dentist will visually inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, plaque buildup, gum disease, or abnormalities.
  • X-Rays: X-rays may be taken to get a detailed look at your teeth, jawbone, and roots. This helps in identifying hidden issues like impacted teeth, cysts, or bone loss.
  • Cleaning: A thorough professional cleaning will remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing can’t reach. This also helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
  • Gum Examination: The dentist or hygienist will check your gums for any signs of disease or inflammation and measure the depth of pockets between your teeth and gums to assess gum health.
  • Oral Cancer Screening: Your dentist will check for any abnormal tissues or lumps in your mouth, throat, and neck area.
  • Discussion and Advice: After the exam, your dentist will discuss any findings, recommend treatment options if necessary, and provide advice on improving your oral hygiene routine.

• Follow Your Dentist’s Recommendations If your dentist identifies any issues during the check-up, it’s important to follow their recommendations for treatment. This may include scheduling a follow-up visit for fillings, root canals, or other procedures. Ignoring dental issues can lead to more severe problems down the line.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Between Visits While regular dental check-ups are important, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally critical. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth.

FAQ

1. What is included in a complete dental check-up?

A dental check-up typically thoroughly examines your teeth, gums, and mouth. It involves a visual inspection for cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease. X-rays may be taken to detect hidden issues, and the dentist will perform an oral cancer screening. A professional cleaning to remove tartar and plaque is also part of the check-up.

2. How often should I get a complete dental check-up?

To maintain good oral health, it’s recommended to have a dental check-up every six months. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have specific dental concerns, such as gum disease or a history of cavities.

3. Are X-rays necessary during every dental check-up?

X-rays are not always required during every check-up. Your dentist will determine the need based on your oral health and history. X-rays are typically used to spot issues that aren’t visible during the visual exam, such as bone loss, impacted teeth, or cavities between teeth.

4. Will my dental insurance cover a complete dental check-up?

Most dental insurance plans cover routine check-ups and cleanings every six months. However, the coverage can vary depending on your plan. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand what is covered and whether any copayments or additional costs apply.

5. How long does a complete dental check-up take?

A complete dental check-up usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This includes time for the examination, X-rays, and professional cleaning. The duration may vary depending on your individual dental needs.

At TruCare Dental, we provide dental solutions to improve your oral health while transforming smiles. Please contact us to make an appointment.