Routine Dental Exams
Practicing good dental hygiene is important for your smile, your dental health, and even the health and well-being of the rest of your body. However, Dr. Allison Brown, DDS and her team all know that sometimes it takes more than personal vigilance to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It takes a professional eye to see the whole picture of oral health. That’s why seeing your dentist for routine dental exams is the key to a beautiful smile.
In general, you should see your dentist for an exam at least twice a year. Alternatively, your dentist may recommend more regular visits if you have periodontal disease or other persistent issues. Keep reading to learn more about the importance of regular dental exams.
Overview Of Dental Check-Ups
You may be wondering why you would need to go for regular exams if you take good care of your teeth and gums. Your teeth have nooks and crannies that regular brushing and flossing can miss, where bacteria can gather and grow. Cavities and other dental issues can go unnoticed in their early stages when they are easiest to treat.
By the time you have any indication that something is wrong, the problem has progressed to the point where dental treatment options must become more aggressive, as well as more expensive. The purpose of dental exams is to detect these problems early enough to treat them quickly, effectively, painlessly, and inexpensively.
What Happens During a Routine Dental Exam?
Your dentist will review your medical history and discuss any changes in medication or any diagnosis of medical conditions that may affect your dental health. In addition, it’s important to talk to your dentist about any issues you may be experiencing, such as pain or loose teeth. This will help guide the exam to any particular problem areas.
During the dental exam, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and tongue for any signs of tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other hidden problems. In addition, they will check for issues such as cavities, plaque, loose teeth, or infection and evaluate your need for tooth restoration or replacement. Your dentist will also check any crowns, braces, or other dental work you’ve had done.
In a comprehensive dental exam, your dentist will not only check your teeth but will also check the following areas:
- Soft tissue, such as the tongue, lips, inside the cheeks, and the roof of your mouth
- Gum tissue and the supporting structures of your teeth
- Occlusions, or how your upper and lower teeth come together
- Your head and neck, to check for swelling of lymph nodes and salivary glands
- Your temporomandibular joint, where your jaw connects to your skull
- Oral cancer screening, during which your dentist will observe your soft tissue, the sides of your neck, and under your jaw for any signs and symptoms of oral cancer
- X-rays to take a closer look at your teeth and check for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, or other issues that start where the naked eye can’t observe
There are two different kinds of X-rays that your dentist can use. Your dentist may take a full-mouth series X-ray periodically to evaluate your dental health and find any major problems. A bitewing X-ray may be taken more often to examine your teeth and check for cavities or other dental issues.
Finally, your dentist will recommend when to return for a follow-up visit or another exam. If any issues are caught during the exam, you will either be given a diagnosis, or your dentist will order more specific and comprehensive testing to be done to determine the nature of the problem. You will be given a course of treatment and instructions on how to mitigate the problem until you can schedule an appointment for the necessary procedure to ensure your health.
Happiness Is Loving Your Smile
Providing a positive dental experience to patients of all ages
How Long Does A Dental Examination Take?
A regular dental check-up generally takes around 15-45 minutes, depending on whether the patient is new to our practice or an existing patient we’ve worked with before. The timing also depends on how extensive the exam will be. A quick check-up goes faster than X-rays and cleaning.
Dental Exam Cost
Most dental insurance programs cover routine maintenance, which includes exams. Be sure to check with your insurance company or dental provider to see which services are covered.
At High Forest Dental, we don’t believe that price or lack of insurance should stand in the way of oral care. For this reason, we provide a membership program that covers many services, such as dental exams and cleanings. Our membership also grants you discounts on dental and orthodontic treatments, including cosmetic procedures. So, no matter where you are financially, we’ll be with you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Exams
Why are routine dental exams important for my overall health?
Dental exams protect more than your smile. They help prevent issues such as periodontal disease, which is linked to systemic illnesses, such as heart disease and diabetes. Staying consistent with dental care keeps your entire system healthier.
How often should I schedule a dental exam?
Twice a year is standard. However, some patients need more visits. If you have gum disease, smoke, are pregnant, or have diabetes, we’ll recommend more frequent exams. Our office will recommend a schedule based on your risk factors and oral history.
How much do routine dental exams typically cost in Littleton, CO?
Dental exams cost a few dollars. Our office will give you exact pricing during your visit. We are upfront with cost, so you know what to expect. If you require additional care, we’ll provide a detailed cost breakdown and an explanation of why the procedure is necessary.
Does insurance cover routine dental exams?
Most insurance plans cover routine exams twice a year. Many plans also cover X-rays and cleanings. However, coverage varies among providers. Our team will verify the scope of your coverage and outline the benefits. If you don’t have insurance, we have a solution to make your dental care affordable. Our in-house membership plan includes routine exams and other preventive services for an affordable fee.
What should I do if I have dental anxiety?
Talk to our team. Dental anxiety is a common problem that affects millions of children and adults. It’s not something to be embarrassed about. Our team will customize your experience to suit your unique needs. You can take breaks. You can ask questions before anything begins. Sedation dentistry is also available if you need more help to remain calm.
What are the signs that indicate I need to visit the dentist more frequently?
Here are troubling signs of your smile:
- Bleeding, tender, or receding gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Frequent tooth decay
- Chronic bad breath
If you notice these symptoms, take action before they progress into costly problems. A comprehensive exam will help establish the state of your smile and create a treatment plan to restore optimal health.
Are dental X-rays necessary?
Dental X-rays help unearth interdental decay, bone loss, impacted teeth, and other hidden dental issues. They help diagnose dental issues before they progress into significant problems. Our office uses modern X-ray technology that generates high-resolution images with minimal radiation exposure.
I struggle to stay consistent with my oral hygiene—what should I do?
You are not alone. Life can get busy, and routine dental care can take a back seat. If you struggle with brushing and flossing, here are a few tips to help you stay consistent with routine care.
- Set reminders on your phone
- Pair brushing with another habit, such as flossing
- Try new tools, such as water flossers or electric toothbrushes
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! High Forest Dental welcomes new patients at any time. To get started, fill out our New Patient Forms or contact our office directly. During your first visit, we’ll administer a comprehensive exam and digital X-rays. You can also speak to our team about any trouble areas or concerns.
Where do I find a reliable dentist near me in Littleton?
Your smile deserves top-tier dental care. High Forest Dental combines advanced technology with personalized care to provide the highest level of dental care. Call (303) 951-3717 and schedule your next appointment today.
Schedule Your Routine Dental Exam Today
High Forest Dental strives to serve the patients of Littleton, CO with a personalized touch. We ensure that every patient’s needs are met, and their dental health goals are achieved. Our treatment plans are designed with you in mind, with a genuine concern for your well-being. And our membership program, discount plans, and family pricing keep our services within reach. So, please call (303) 951-3717 today to schedule an appointment with us for your dental exam. We hope to see you soon!
