When it’s time for your checkup, you might imagine it’s a simple visit that doesn’t have much going on other than looking at your teeth. However, as easy as it may seem, your dentist is working hard to make it seem that way! They are checking every part of your oral health, meaning they look at more stuff that you may think. Here are three other things they do during your cleaning that help you have a stronger smile.
1.) Watching for Signs of Gum Disease
Your gums are probably the next thing you think of when it comes to your grin. When they are healthy, they are pink and firm, but they can become infected by plaque that builds up along your gumline. If this happens, then you may be at a risk of periodontal disease.
This condition starts with minor symptoms that can be easy to ignore. As it progresses, the soft tissues in your mouth can recede and pull away from your teeth, creating pockets that can house bacterial buildup. Your dentist can measure these spaces to see whether you have anything to worry about.
Not only that, but they can educate you on signs to watch for, such as noticeable redness, inflammation, or bleeding when brushing and flossing.
2.) Assessing Your Tongue and Salivary Glands
The tongue is an important muscle that helps with many things, like swallowing and tasting. It’s also an indicator of certain oral health issues, as it can develop sores, discoloration, or white spots when there’s something awry. That way, anything worrying can be figured out and be treated.
By taking a look at your salivary glands, your provider can also help you avoid a wide range of dental problems. Saliva is an important component of a healthy smile as it can remineralize your enamel and wash away harmful bacteria. If you can’t produce adequate amounts of it, then plaque can linger and attack your grin, causing decay or periodontal disease.
3.) Keeping an Eye Out for Oral Cancer
One life-threatening condition your dentist watches for is oral cancer. Anyone can develop it, but certain people may be at a higher risk, such as smokers. It can manifest as red or white patches, rough spots, or lesions that have lasted for longer than two weeks. By spotting these problems earlier, you can get the treatment you need right away to give you the highest chance of a successful recovery.
Although you might’ve thought your checkups were just about your teeth, there are many things your provider does that you might not know. Keep in mind the three above, and you can feel confident knowing they get you to your best smile.
About the Practice
At Nu Dental Eatontown, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping the local community get the stronger grins they deserve with preventive care. By having regular cleanings, we can make sure your teeth, gums, and everything else are in great shape. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at (732) 863-3899.