Spring cleaning is an annual ritual for millions of Americans. While you’re dusting those corners and cleaning out those closets, why not take some time for a trip to your dentist in Goodlettsville? Not only will it help to safeguard your teeth from cavities, it’s essential for catching serious health problems in their early stages.
Why a Biannual Oral Exam is So Important for Your Health
Seeing your family dentist in Goodlettsville every six months gives him or her a chance to see what’s going on with your oral health and to treat any problems that may exist.
During the examination your dentist will give your mouth, palate, tongue, lips, face, and throat a close visual inspection. This is meant to catch abnormalities such as open sores or discolored skin. He or she will also feel your face and lips for unexplained bumps or ridges; these are often the first sign that something may be wrong.
Professional Teeth Cleaning: For Results that Brushing Alone Cannot Provide
The second phase of a routine dental visit is a professional cleaning. A trained dental professional will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar to a degree that brushing and flossing by themselves can never achieve. This is a gentle, comfortable process during which you can relax. Once it’s over, your mouth will feel clean and refreshed.
What to Expect Next
if your teeth and gums are basically healthy, then the visit will probably be limited to the exam and whitening. If your dentist notices cause for concern, then he or she may perform a closer examination using special diagnostic methods or tools. Here are some common oral health problems that dentists treat:
- Cavities: a simple filling may suffice if this problem is caught in its early stages. If the cavity is more advanced, then your dentist may recommend a root canal, crown, or, in some cases, an extraction.
- Missing teeth: a dental bridge is one way to deal with this condition. It uses a set of artificial teeth that are anchored on either side of the gap, either by existing teeth or by dental implants.
- Gingivitis: this term refers to the earliest stage of gum disease. It usually yields to conservative treatments like antibiotic mouthwash accompanied by regular self-care. In some cases, more extensive treatment may be needed, such as cleaning the teeth above the gum line.
- Oral cancer: this disease afflicts over 450,000 Americans each year. It’s more likely to strike people who use tobacco, drink excessively, or have a family history of the disease. But anyone of any age may develop it. Catching the problem early is essential for the patient’s well-being. Dentists are specially trained to spot symptoms of the condition, making regular oral exams a vital part of your health care regimen.
Spring is all about making a fresh start. This year, why not add a dental visit to your plans? Afterward you’ll look back on the decision with plenty of reason to smile.
About the Author
Dr. Deidra Harrison-McClain earned her DDS degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, graduating at the top of her class. A skilled family and cosmetic dentist, she treats a wide array of oral health conditions. You can reach her office online or by calling (615) 859-0188.