You’re conscientious about your oral health, brushing twice a day and flossing regularly, so why do you need a comprehensive dental exam? Because many serious dental problems develop without noticeable symptoms until they've progressed.
What Happens During Your Dental Exam
At Meadow Ridge Dental Centre in Maple Ridge, BC, a dental exam isn’t just a quick look at your teeth; it is a comprehensive review of your oral health, including multiple steps:
- Visual Examination — Your dentist carefully examines each tooth for signs of cavities, cracks, wear, and structural damage. They also evaluate your gums for signs of periodontal disease, check your bite alignment, and look at the soft tissues of your mouth for any abnormalities.
- Digital X-Rays — Visual exams are essential, but digital x-rays give your dentist a clear view of what’s happening beneath the surface. They can spot cavities between teeth, bone loss from gum disease, impacted teeth, infections at tooth roots, and other issues not possible during a visual exam alone.
- Oral Cancer Screening — Every exam includes a thorough screening for oral cancer. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes, making this simple screening potentially life-saving.
- Intraoral Camera Technology — Using this handheld, high-resolution camera, your dentist can show you precisely what they see. You can follow along with the exam and see detailed images of your teeth in real-time, making it easier to understand any issues and recommended treatment.
- Bite and Jaw Assessment — Your dentist evaluates how your teeth come together and checks for signs of teeth grinding, TMJ problems, or bite issues that could cause long-term damage.
Regular Dental Exams Can Save Time and Money
Comprehensive dental exams in Maple Ridge, BC, help protect your oral health by catching problems early. A small cavity detected during an exam might only require a simple filling; that same cavity left undetected for a year might need a root canal and crown. Gum disease caught in its early stages can be reversed; advanced periodontal disease requires extensive treatment.
Ready to protect your smile? Contact Meadow Ridge Dental Centre today to schedule your dental exam services in Maple Ridge, BC.