Patients often assume that their biannual dental visits are nothing more than a quick cavity check. That’s not the case! In fact, in a matter of minutes, your dentist covers a lot of ground, which benefits both your oral and overall health. Not quite convinced? Then keep reading to learn five things you didn’t know your dentist was doing at your checkup!
1. Examining Your Tongue
When it comes to oral health, teeth and gums typically steal the spotlight. However, your tongue takes up a lot of real estate in your mouth, and discoloration, sensitivity, and other abnormalities can indicate that something is wrong. That’s why your dentist doesn’t wrap up their exam until they’ve taken a good look at yours!
2. Screening for Oral Cancer
Another important component of routine exams for your dentist is conducting an oral cancer screening. Since it happens so quickly, many patients don’t even realize that their dentist is looking for common warning signs of oral cancer, like rough spots or reddish flecks. If they see anything concerning, they will bring it to your attention. Otherwise, they will carry on with their exam.
3. Checking Your Gums
Gum disease is something that roughly 50% of American adults struggle with. For this reason, your dentist will look for swelling, discoloration, and large gum pockets during the exam. They may also ask a few questions about your at-home oral hygiene regimen, like if your gums ever bleed when you floss. That way, if it ever arises, gum disease is treated sooner rather than later.
4. Evaluating Your Bite
Overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites may be common, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be taken seriously. After all, even mild cases can lead to serious consequences, like chronic jaw pain, trouble chewing properly, and premature wear. To help prevent that from happening, your dentist checks the alignment of your bite at each appointment.
5. Looking for Areas of Improvement
Your dentist wants you to have a healthy, happy smile throughout the years. To make that goal a reality, they will look for areas of improvement, like flossing your molars more thoroughly or using an electric, soft-bristled toothbrush. Of course, they are there to answer any questions you have about your oral health too, so don’t hesitate to ask any that are on your mind!
About the Practice
At University Dental Group, we provide all of the basics under one roof – from routine cleanings to oral cancer screenings. Not only that, but we are open five days a week, we welcome dental insurance, and we accept CareCredit so that patients who are uninsured don’t have to stress about the cost either. If you have a question for us about preventive dentistry, or you want to schedule an appointment at our family-friendly office, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us via our website or by phone at (508) 753-1911.