Oral exams and “checkups”: The foundation for a healthy mouth and appealing smile
Our expert team in Abingdon, Virginia, strives to keep your smile in top shape. Abingdon Smiles accomplishes this by scheduling oral exams at least twice yearly. These exams are complemented by a professional dental cleaning, x-rays (as needed), an oral cancer screening, and recommendations for professional preventive services and treatments. In fact, some preventative services can be easily incorporated into your checkups. These solutions include the application of fluoride or dental sealants.
Of course, no visit would be complete without discussing any changes since your last appointment and providing you with guidance on tooth-friendly food choices, brushing and flossing techniques, oral care products – really, whatever you need to sustain your best smile and health!
What do you look for during an exam?
Our dentists’ exams are comprehensive. They may identify hidden or early problems affecting the teeth and gums and the structures surrounding and supporting your dental and periodontal tissues. For instance, we have been known to find early enamel erosion or mild gingival inflammation before they produce even the most subtle problems. It’s a fallacy to think that because your teeth and gums look and feel fine, they really are healthy. Many oral health issues remain undetected until significant damage occurs and the underlying disease has progressed.
How is the cancer screening performed?
During this step in your visit, we may feel your neck, under the chin, and at the jawline for potential trouble signs, such as swelling and lumps. We will also use our sense of touch to identify swelling and anomalous lumps and bumps inside the mouth. Our doctors are looking for areas of discoloration, such as white patches inside the mouth. We may also ask you questions about changes since your last visit; for instance, it’s important to tell us if you have noticed frequent sore throats, habitual hoarseness, or difficulties with swallowing.
Are X-rays ordered at every visit?
No. X-rays are only ordered periodically or on an “as-needed” basis if we find abnormalities that might suggest oral disease or other conditions that need to be resolved. Rest assured, modern x-ray technologies are quite safe and minimize radiation exposure. They also support the most accurate diagnosis by providing us with lots of clear “visuals” of otherwise tiny and hard-to-see areas.
Why do you clean my teeth when I floss and brush daily?
The professional cleaning service differs from your typical brushing and flossing at home. You must have both good home care and skilled care to maintain a healthy mouth. Since destructive plaque constantly forms on the teeth, removing all of it is impossible. As plaque builds up, this sticky bacterial film hardens to become tartar. And tartar can only be removed by dental professionals with the right training and tools to do so. So, our hygienists at Abingdon Smiles dramatically reduce your risks of developing tooth decay and gum disease. They also lift surface stains and the bacteria responsible for bad breath to promote a fresh mouth and a beautiful smile.
If it’s been at least six months since your last visit or you are concerned about changes to your mouth, call our team at (276) 628-7862 to schedule an appointment in Abingdon, VA, today.
