Have you ever wondered why your dentist wants to see you so often? You brush your teeth and floss at home, so why do you need to visit twice a year? The truth is that even though you do take care of your teeth at least two times a day, you still need to get your teeth cleaned and examined every six months. That’s because in addition to removing stubborn plaque, your dentist is searching for warning signs that your oral health could be in trouble. If you’ve ever wondered exactly what they may be looking for in your mouth, here are a few things your dentist is keeping an eye out for when you stop by for your semi-annual appointments!
Oral Health Screenings
One of the main things your dentist is looking for when he or she examines your mouth is illness that can often go unnoticed by the patient. This can include everything from gum disease to oral cancer. If your dentist spots either of these issues, they can get you on a treatment plan or refer you to a specialist for further assistance.
Jaw Problems
For some patients, having pain or a clicking or popping jaw is just a normal way of life. They may not even think anything of it after a while. But your dentist knows that this can often be a symptom of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. If one is discovered, your dentist can get you the help you need so you can live life pain free!
Bad Surprises
Because your dentist takes X-rays, he or she has an in-depth view of your mouth. This includes any hidden surprises lurking in your teeth and gums, such as wisdom teeth, tooth infections, dental cysts, and even cavities, all of which can be invisible to the naked eye. Furthermore, just because you didn’t have these problems at your last six-month appointment doesn’t mean one hasn’t developed in the meantime. Thus, it is important to continuously screen for these issues before they get worse.
Tonsils & Sinuses
While your mouth is open, your dentist is also checking the condition of your sinuses and tonsils to screen for any illness or infection. While you may need to visit another specialist if an issue is spotted, your dental appointment is the perfect opportunity for a heads-up you may not have known you needed.
Remember, though important, your dental appointment isn’t just to clean your teeth. Your dentist is checking your mouth for many medical conditions that could cause pain and damage if left untreated, so don’t skip your semi-annual exams, and you’ll have plenty of reasons to smile all year long!
About Dr. Maier
Dr. Holly Maier is passionate about protecting her patients’ oral health! Whether she’s performing a screening, treating their TMJ pain, or helping restore their smile with dental implants, she knows that the key to a healthy mouth is a good patient-dentist relationship. That’s why creating lasting bonds is so important to her and the entire Shelburne Village Dentistry team.
If you’re looking for more than just a cleaning and exam, let Dr. Maier and her team assist you with protecting your teeth at your next semi-annual cleaning and exam by scheduling an appointment on our website or calling us today at 802-985-9700.