Dental checkups are often seen as a time for your dentist to examine your smile for cavities, gum disease, and possible dental damage. Although catching these in their earliest stages is essential, they’re not the only potential problems your dentist is looking for during your biannual appointments. Keep reading to discover what else is going on while you lie back in the treatment chair.
Your Dentist is Checking for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects more than 50,000 people each year, and the signs that point to its existence are often not caught until the latter stages. This is why dentists are poised to detect oral abnormalities before they worsen.
During your dental checkup, you can expect your dentist to check your neck, throat, and mouth for any hard lumps, oral sores, discolored patches of tissue, and other abnormalities. Identifying symptoms in their earliest stages increases your chances of survival by ensuring you receive the specialized care you deserve.
Your Dentist is Checking Your Tongue and Salivary Glands
In addition to your teeth and gums, your dentist will also check your tongue and salivary glands to see if an infection exists. Bad breath or halitosis can be a clear indicator of a problem that needs proper treatment. If your salivary glands are not functioning properly, you may complain of dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
Your Dentist is Evaluating Your Bite
Each time you visit your dentist’s office for a dental checkup, you can expect they will ask you to bite down. This is to determine whether there is a problem. If your teeth have shifted, or if you experience discomfort, it may be that your bite is out of alignment and you are suffering from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues.
If this is the case, you can expect your dentist to craft a plan that focuses on bringing your bite back into proper alignment so that you no longer grind or clench your teeth. This not only alleviates daily discomfort but also prevents further enamel erosion.
There is a lot that happens during your dental checkups, so be sure to always keep your appointments. Doing so will ensure you get the comprehensive oral healthcare you need to maintain a healthy smile.
About the Practice
Westgate Dental Care is pleased to have multiple dentists on staff who can provide comprehensive treatment in a comfortable, welcoming environment. With a patient-focused approach, our team uses the latest technologies and equipment to ensure accurate diagnoses and beautiful restorations. If you need a dental checkup but are unsure what to expect, visit our website or call us at (847) 577-7171 to speak to a member of our team.