During a visit with a family dentist, they will likely order dental X-rays and conduct a thorough dental examination. The examination allows the dentist to detect any oral health or cosmetic concerns that need addressing. Then the patient and the family dentist can put together an appropriate treatment and prevention plan.
Dental examinations allow family dentists to detect signs of damage, decay, periodontal disease, orthodontic-related concerns, jaw complications or signs of early cancer. This review goes into depth on the signs of each potential concern.
Teeth damage can result from a blow to the mouth, during a nasty fall or it could be the result of something more subtle such as the effects of teeth grinding at night. Teeth decay can also develop slowly without the patient noticing or experiencing discomforting symptoms. During an exam with a family dentist, signs of bruxism, broken teeth, teeth decay and more are checked for. The family dentist can detect early signs before they become worse and require more extensive treatment.
Gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main types of periodontal (gum) disease. Gingivitis is a less severe form of periodontal disease and can be treated through oral care changes, dietary changes and a dental cleaning from a family dentist. Periodontitis can develop if less severe gum disease goes on for too long, and then it may require a deep dental cleaning. Dental exams allow the family dentist to check for signs of gum disease so that treatment can be administered in the earliest stage possible when necessary.
During a dental exam, family dentists also check the alignment of the patient’s teeth and jaw. This checks for any bite complications such as an underbite, overbite, crossbite, etc. They also check for misalignments due to crooked teeth, overcrowding, gaps between teeth and more. Based on their findings, the family dentist can make treatment recommendations and explain all available options.
Jaw complications such as TMJ disorder are more common than many patients think. Family dentists check for signs of jaw complications during a dental exam. Signs may include a stiff or locked jaw, a clicking sound when moving the jaw and pain. Early detection of jaw complications allows for more effective and less invasive treatment.
Patients may benefit from a more extensive oral cancer screening, but family dentists also check for early signs of oral cancer during a dental exam. If they notice any concerns, they may recommend additional testing to determine the official diagnosis of the concern in question.
Individuals can schedule a visit with our family dentistry by calling us or sending us a message. Our friendly team can answer questions, conduct a thorough oral examination to determine if there are any oral health issues and help you meet oral care and cosmetic treatment goals.
Are you considering a family dentist in the Lake Forest area? Get more information at https://stunningsmilesoflakeforest.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Family Dentist in Lake Forest, CA.
Seeing a family dentist at least two times a year is one of the main ways to keep teeth healthy and gums in good condition. Every six months, the dentist can check to ensure there are no signs of gum disease, cavities, tooth decay, or other implications of compromised oral health. For parents, it is…
Wondering when it is necessary to visit a family dentist and when it is necessary to visit a general dentist? These are two common types of dental professionals. While they are similar, they do have their differences.Considering choosing a family dentist in Lake Forest? Whenever it is necessary to choose a new dentist, it is…
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a common item in most households, and many people want to ask their family dentist if this ingredient is as good for brushing teeth as so many people claim it is. It is possible to find baking soda as an ingredient in over-the-counter toothpaste, but what about…
First aid for your teeth is rarely ever taught in school, and most people do not have a family dental first aid kit. This is unfortunate because injuries to the teeth and mouth are very common, especially among children. Whether you are a parent or a young adult, it is important to always be prepared…
After experiencing a tooth injury, you have a better chance of saving your tooth if…
An emergency dentistry treatment can help correct sudden dental issues. Most dentists can even provide…
Emergency dentistry is an excellent option if you have a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth.…
Seeing an emergency dentistry professional can correct a persistent dental issue. Many people suffer from…
Proper oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dental office can keep the teeth…
The dental filling has advanced over time. Silver or dental amalgams and tooth-colored fillings (made…
