Regular dental exams are a crucial component of maintaining good oral health. At Sachem Dental Group, we believe in the importance of preventative care, and dental exams are a key part of that approach. We offer different types of dental exams and screenings to our patients, depending on what their concerns and oral health needs are.
Importance of Regular Dental Exams
Regular dental exams are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Even if you practice good oral hygiene at home each day, there are still many factors that can impact your oral health. Dental exams allow our Long Island dentists to detect any potential issues early on, which can help prevent more serious problems from developing down the line.
During your dental exam, our dentists will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They may also perform screenings for oral cancer, which can be life-saving if caught early. Regular dental exams can also help detect and treat dental problems that may be causing other health issues, such as sleep apnea or TMJ disorders.
Types of Dental Exams and Screenings
At Sachem Dental Group, we offer several types of dental exams and screenings to meet our patients’ needs. Here are the most common types of exams and screenings that we offer:
Comprehensive New Patient Exam:
If you’re a new patient at Sachem Dental Group or it’s been at least a few years since your initial comprehensive exam, we’ll start with a detailed and thorough exam to establish the baseline reading of your oral health condition(s). During this exam, we’ll take x-rays, evaluate your teeth and gums, and check for signs of oral cancer.
Periodic Dental Exam:
After your initial comprehensive exam, we’ll recommend periodic exams to maintain your oral health. During these exams, we’ll check for any changes or issues since your last checkup, monitoring your oral health so that we can intercept concerns as early as possible.
Most periodic dental exams are scheduled every six months because this is the recommended frequency for maintaining good oral health and detecting potential issues early on. During a six-month interval, any developing issues can be caught and addressed before they become more serious. Additionally, these exams tend to coincide with your professional cleanings to help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated.
Limited or Problem Specific Exam:
If you’re experiencing a specific dental problem, such as a toothache or a broken tooth, we will recommend a limited or problem-specific exam. During this exam, we’ll focus on addressing the specific issue that you’re experiencing. It usually includes one small X-ray of your tooth and a quick assessment of a localized area of your mouth.
Periodontal Exam:
Periodontal exams are designed to check for signs of gum disease. During a periodontal screening, your dentist or hygienist will assess the health of your gums and supporting structures. They will use a small probe to measure the space between your teeth and gums, looking for signs of gum recession, periodontal pockets, and bone loss. They may also take X-rays to check for any bone loss that is not visible to the naked eye. Based on the results of the exam, they may recommend further treatment to address any periodontal issues that are present, such as scaling and root planing or periodontal surgery.
Oral Cancer Screening:
Oral cancer screenings are important for detecting and treating oral cancer early. During this screening, your dentist will look for signs of abnormalities or lesions in your mouth, throat, and neck. They make up an essential part of your comprehensive or periodic dental exam appointment.
Regular oral cancer exams are important for all patients, even those who are considered to be in good health or don’t smoke. This is because oral cancer can develop without obvious symptoms or warning signs, and early detection is key to successful treatment. During an oral cancer exam, we will check for any abnormal lumps, bumps, or lesions in the mouth or throat that may indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous tissues. By identifying potential issues early, patients have a much better chance of successful treatment and recovery.
Dental Exams for Children:
It’s important for children to start receiving dental care early on to establish good oral health habits and detect any potential issues as soon as possible. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child should have their first dental exam by their first birthday or within six months of the eruption of their first tooth, whichever comes first. Early dental exams can help detect and prevent dental issues from developing down the line. For example, if a child has teeth that are overcrowded or not coming in properly, early intervention can prevent more serious issues like misalignment and orthodontic problems.
How Often to Schedule Dental Exams
The frequency of your dental exams will depend on a variety of factors, including your age, overall health, and risk factors for oral health issues. In general, most patients should schedule dental exams at least twice per year, or every six months. However, some patients may need to schedule exams more frequently, such as those with a history of gum disease or a higher risk of oral cancer.
Our Long Island dentists can help you determine how often to schedule your dental exams based on your individual needs. It’s important to remember that regular dental exams are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing more serious issues from developing down the line.
Schedule Your Exam Today
At Sachem Dental Group, we believe in the power of preventative care. Our team of experienced dentists and hygienists are committed to helping our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles. If you’re due for a dental exam, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today. We offer a range of exam types and screenings to meet your individual needs, and our friendly staff will ensure that your visit is comfortable and stress-free. Contact us today to schedule your next visit and take the first step towards a healthier smile.