Importance of Regular Exams
Why does your dentist want you to schedule appointments twice a year - even if your last oral exam was perfect? Regular dental visits are essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
For maximum benefit, a good home care regimen must be supplemented with an examination at least
every six months. Depending on the status of your oral health, your dentist may recommend more
frequent visits.
 Checking your teeth for decay is only a small part of a thorough oral exam. At every regularly scheduled
dental appointment, your dentist examines your teeth, gums, mouth and throat. During
each exam your dentist (or dental hygienist) will also: check your gums (gingiva) for inflammation,
tooth mobility and pockets; examine your mouth for indications of possible cancer, diabetes and
vitamin deficiencies; and note any irregularities in your facial structure, bite, saliva and
temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Your dentist or hygienist will clean your teeth and encourage you to
maintain good oral hygiene.
After completing the clinical dental exam, your
dentist might outline a detailed treatment plan, if
necessary, and indicate when you need to return for
a follow-up visit. Regular preventive maintenance of
this type, along with a thorough home care regimen,
helps assure your good oral health. |
