Did you know the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a dental exam every six months? We agree, and urge our patients to visit our team for a routine visit twice a year. These can help people of all ages enjoy optimal oral health! In today’s blog, your Austin, MN, dentists talk about our checkups.
Why You Need a Dental Exam
You need an exam to identify any areas of concern before an oral health issue can threaten the comfort and stability of your smile. Serious problems like tooth decay, infection, or even gum disease take months to form, so a regular visit every twice a year means we can identify them early on, often before you experience discomfort. We then create a customized treatment plan, one tailored for your unique situation, to return your smile to optimal oral health, function, and beauty. On average, this means one every six months. However, if you have high risk factors for gum disease, we may recommend one every three to four months.
Six Month Checkups
During the exam, we will use digital x-rays and intraoral cameras to capture detailed images of your smile, including the portions not visible to the naked eye. We can then make a diagnosis with accuracy and precision. We will look for signs of tooth decay and dental infection, as well as gingivitis and gum disease. Our team will also look for the signs of wear and friction that could indicate TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). For children, we will make sure baby teeth are arriving and falling out on schedule, and that permanent teeth can erupt without complication, as this limits the risk of misalignment. In the same sitting, we also clean the teeth for kids and adults, removing harmful layers of plaque and tartar to limit the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Oral Cancer Screening
During your exams, we will also screen for oral cancer using a visual exam and advanced technology. Each year, over 53,000 people are diagnosed with the disease and over half will die within five years. The main reason is because oral cancer is rarely caught in the early stages, but a routine screening can allow us to identify possible cancerous or precancerous areas early, improving your chances of a recovery. If you have any questions about how we treat your smile and offer preventive care, then contact our team today. Be sure to give our team a call soon, we’re ready to see every member of your family!
Do You Have Questions About Preventive Dentistry?
We want to help you and your family maintain good oral health with preventive care. To make an appointment with the Potach and Mitchell Dental Clinic, contact our Austin, MN dental office today by calling 507-437-6312.
