What Can a Dentist Detect During a Dental Checkup?

A dental checkup is an important part of maintaining good oral health, and there are many different oral health and cosmetic complications that a dentist can detect on a routine visit. It is encouraged that you visit the dentist for a dental checkup once every four to six months.

Complications detected during a dental checkup

By understanding the complications a dentist may spot during a dental checkup, you can better understand the purpose of the visit and be more willing to make it into all scheduled appointments. The following are four of the more notable complications dentists check for during a dental checkup. 

Tooth decay

The first thing dentists often check for during a dental checkup is any signs of tooth decay. Of course, cavities that develop on more visible teeth in the front of the mouth are easy to notice, but cavities on teeth further back in the mouth often go unnoticed. Dentists also spot any signs of weakened enamel, and they can provide treatment to help patients avoid developing cavities. It is important not to assume you do not have cavities and make it in for all routine checkups. 

Gum disease

Gum disease is very prevalent and affects millions of people every year. If left undetected and untreated, gum disease may lead to more serious oral health concerns, including gum recession, oral infections and eventual tooth loss. During a dental checkup, dentists look for any signs of gum disease, such as swollen gums, discoloration of the gums and gum recession. They can provide treatment for gum disease, which may involve scaling and root planing and education on how to care for gums at home. 

Cosmetic issues

Many believe that dental checkups are only to detect any signs of poor oral health. While oral health is often the main reason for a dental checkup, dentists also use the opportunity to check for any issues that may be more of a cosmetic issue than an oral health issue, such as teeth stains and shifting teeth. When plaque and tartar buildup on teeth, stains often occur, and anytime wisdom teeth grow in incorrectly, teeth may shift and require more expensive straightening procedures. 

Oral cancer

The earlier oral cancer is detected, the easier it often is to treat the symptoms and control the disease. During a dental checkup, your dentist will look for any signs of cancer on the gums, cheeks and tongue. If the dentist notices any issues they may order a more extensive oral cancer screening, which involves dental X-rays and other forms of testing. If there are not any signs of oral cancer, the patient is able to go home feeling good about their oral health.

Schedule a dental checkup today

If you are due for your next dental checkup, then feel free to consult with us today and schedule a time to come in for a visit. During your visit, we can check for oral health and cosmetic concerns and provide useful insights on how to care for your teeth at home. We have a dedicated staff here to help and ready to answer all of your questions. 

Are you considering a dental checkup in the Peoria area? Get more dental checkup information at https://pateldentistpeoria.com.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

When To See An Emergency Dentist

An emergency dentist can fix you right up when dental emergencies occur. Serious injuries to the mouth clearly require emergency treatments, but other seemingly less serious dental problems might leave you wondering if you need an emergency dentist.This article will explore some common injuries that need immediate dental treatment:One of the most common reasons why…

What To Expect During Smile Makeover Treatment

A smile makeover, also known as a full-mouth restoration, is a combination of cosmetic dentistry and restorative dental procedures. It repairs and improves the appearance of the teeth, allowing the patient to smile more confidently.Before getting a smile makeover, the patient should consult with the dentist to discuss any concerns about their teeth and the…

How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Services Boost Confidence?

Cosmetic dentistry plays a considerable role when it comes to how people feel about themselves. It can instantly transform the appearance of a person's smile, giving them a much-needed confidence boost. It is impossible to overstate the role that your teeth play when it comes to your appearance. It is one of the things people…

Having Multiple Dental Implants Placed At The Same Time

A dental implant can support a replacement tooth. Dental implants provide a simple solution for replacing missing teeth. The procedure will leave you with a beautiful smile that looks and feels natural. If two or more of your teeth are missing, you may need multiple implants to solve this problem. Dental bridges and implants can…

Recent Posts

When To See An Emergency Dentist

When To See An Emergency Dentist

An emergency dentist can fix you right up when dental emergencies occur. Serious injuries to the mouth clearly require emergency treatments, but other seemingly less serious dental problems might leave you wondering if you need an emergency dentist.This article will explore some common injuries that need immediate dental treatment:One of the most common reasons why…

What To Expect During Smile Makeover Treatment

What To Expect During Smile Makeover Treatment

A smile makeover, also known as a full-mouth restoration, is a combination of cosmetic dentistry and restorative dental procedures. It repairs and improves the appearance of the teeth, allowing the patient to smile more confidently.Before getting a smile makeover, the patient should consult with the dentist to discuss any concerns about their teeth and the…