What is a dental exam
A dental exam is used for preventive dentistry and is usually performed together by a dental hygienist and a dentist to check the condition of your teeth and gums. A variety of tools and techniques are used in to thoroughly evaluate the patient’s oral health and diagnose any tooth decay, gum disease, and any other oral or dental issues. With regular check-ups, it is possible to catch and treat any oral problems early in order to curb their progression into more serious conditions.
What is an Oral Cancer Screening
A dentist or doctor may perform an oral cancer screening to check a patient’s mouth and throat area for any signs of cancerous or precancerous abnormalities. As with any type of cancer, or any dental or general health issue for that matter, early detection is important and can help prevent or curb the progression and worsening of the problem. With regular screenings, we are able to detect any cancer in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective.
FAQs About Dental Exams and Oral Cancer Screening
How often do I need to get a dental exam?
We recommend that most children and adults go for a dental exam every 6 months. Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have any underlying dental conditions such as gingivitis or other gum disease. Following recommended guidelines for dental check-ups is important as it can help prevent the onset of and treat the progression of these conditions that may lead to more serious diseases such as periodontitis.
Do I need an oral cancer screening?
At our Aurora dental clinic, we include an oral cancer screening as part of the regular dental check-up process. Since our focus is on preventive dentistry, a six-monthly screening allows us to catch any signs of cancerous or precancerous abnormalities in their earliest stages so they can be treated right away for the best results.
People who use tobacco in any form, or drink heavily (30 or more drinks weekly) are at increased risk of oral cancer, with 75% of all diagnosed cases in the country estimated to have been triggered by these habits. If you have had an oral cancer diagnosis in the past, have immediate family members who have had oral cancer diagnoses, or have a history of heavy sun exposure, you may also be at increased risk. We recommend that any person in these categories be particularly diligent about receiving regular screenings.
How early should I take my child in for their first dental exam?
The general recommendation is for your child to be taken in for their first dental appointment before they reach 12 months of age, and no later the six months after the eruption of their first tooth. During this appointment, your child’s pediatric dentist should conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend the frequency of future check-ups. This is normally every 6 months but may be more frequent if your child is showing any signs of tooth development abnormalities or other oral health issues.
What does a dental exam and oral cancer screening appointment involve?
Your routine dental check-up appointment will typically involve professional teeth cleaning, a visual examination of your mouth, and if necessary, x-rays may be taken to accurately diagnose any problems that have been detected.
The visual exam may involve the use of small mirrors and dental picks to look for any signs of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as check the conditions of any existing restorations such as dental fillings, dental crowns, and dental bridges. If your dentist is also performing an oral cancer screening, they will also check your neck and oral tissues for lumps, red and/or white patches, and any recurring sore areas of your mouth and gums.
X-rays may also be required in order to further detect and evaluate tooth decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss, and also determine tooth and root positions for the best treatment strategy.
Teeth cleaning is also normally performed at every routine check-up, usually by the dental hygienist, using specialized tools to scrape away stubborn plaque and tartar that is not removable by regular oral hygiene practices.
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Do you need a dental exam or oral cancer screening in Aurora CO? Contact our dental office for your exam and screening today!
