Even if you brush and floss your teeth religiously on a daily basis, regular dental check-ups are still essential in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy. This is because your Liverpool dentist will examine for early signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer or other dental problems which may not be visible because they are not causing pain necessarily.
At Liverpool Smile Studio, we offer professional cleaning to help your teeth get rid of plaque and tartar build-up, which tends to accumulate in hard-to-reach areas. Taking good care of your oral health is the best way to prevent problems in the future. At Liverpool Smile Studio, we offer all our patients a comprehensive oral health assessment and encourage them to discuss their health history and any concerns before proceeding to treatment. Here is what to expect from our Liverpool dentist during your oral health assessment.
Examining your teeth
After your teeth are clean, your Liverpool dentist will carefully examine them for signs of decay, typically using a metal probe and a small mirror with an angled handle. Your dentist will also test how your upper and lower teeth come together and will look for evidence of tooth grinding jaw problems. They will also examine your neck and the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of oral cancer, especially if you are age 35 or older. Because early detection of oral cancer is vital, if you are not entirely certain when you had your last screening, ask your Liverpool dentist to repeat the screening during your dental check-up. Patients at high risk are advised to have regular screenings every month.
In the course of the examination, your dentist may require taking X-rays or tooth impressions. Also, they will assess the health of the gums and the surrounding jaw bone, for signs of gum disease. During your oral health assessment, your dentist will make a detailed record of all existing fillings and a report on signs of fractures or ledges on your teeth. The same will be done for all existing crowns, veneers, bridges or implants for fit, appearance and function.