So you’ve finally decided to give in, and go to a dentist for a professional checkup. Well the first thing you most likely go through, after the initial booking, etc, is a full on consultation. Now depending on the dentist, this may take a few minutes (10-15 perhaps), or longer. Since each dentist has their own way of doing things, it really depends on how they will approach things.
That said, here are a few things that may happen.
Medical History Review
Before your examination, your dentist or hygienist will review your medical history to ensure they know of any conditions that may affect your oral health. This includes any medications you are currently taking, or past medical procedures that you may have undergone.
A medical history review helps your dentist provide appropriate care, and take the necessary precautions during any dental procedure. It’s essential to keep your medical history up-to-date, and inform your dentist of any changes in your health status or medications.
After all, the last thing you need is some complications that could have been easily avoided.
Examining your Teeth and Gums
During the examination, your dentist or hygienist will visually inspect your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues. They will also use a dental instrument to measure the depth of your gum pockets, which can indicate the presence of any gum disease.
Here’s how the dentist may perform this examination:
Visual Inspection
The dentist will first conduct a visual inspection of your teeth and gums. They will probably use a dental mirror, and a medical flashlight to see inside your mouth. They will look for any signs of decay (Such as dark spots or holes in your teeth), and any symptoms of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding gums.
Gum Pocket Depth Measurement
In addition to the visual inspection, the dentist may also measure the depth of your gum pockets using a dental instrument called a periodontal probe. This involves gently inserting the probe between your teeth and gums, to measure the depth of the pockets around each tooth. Deeper pockets can indicate the possible presence of gum disease.
Bite Evaluation
The dentist may also evaluate your bite during the examination. This involves observing how your teeth come together when you bite down and looking for any issues with your bite alignment, that may cause dental problems in the future.
Tooth Sensitivity Test
During the examination, the dentist may also conduct a tooth sensitivity test. This involves applying a cold or hot stimulus to each tooth, to determine if any teeth are sensitive to temperature changes. This may help in uncovering any underlying dental, or health issues.
X-Rays
Your dentist may also take X-rays of your teeth and jaw, to better understand your oral health. X-rays can show things like cavities, or bone loss that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
When a dentist needs to take an X-ray of a patient’s teeth, they use a machine that creates an image through radiation technology. An X-Ray will also show the dentist if you have any issues, with dental tissues (Nice rhyme?).
Here’s how a dentist usually does an X-ray:
Preparation
Before an X-ray, you will expected to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, or other metal objects that may conflict with the machine. The dentist will also put a lead apron over your chest and stomach, to protect your from getting too much radiation. Considered mostly safe, you shouldn’t get an x-ray done more than three times a year. Everyone’s case is different, but that seems to be the number for some people.
Positioning the X-ray Machine
The dentist will position the X-ray machine to align with the patient’s mouth. Depending on the type of X-ray being taken, they may place a small X-ray sensor or film in the patient’s mouth.
Going Under
Once the patient is properly positioned, and the X-ray machine is in place, the dentist will instruct the patient to hold still, and may ask them to bite down on a small piece of plastic, or film. The dentist will then activate the X-ray machine, which will emit a small amount of radiation, and creating the image of your teeth.
Going Over The Results
After taking the X-ray, the dentist will look at the picture to check on the patient’s teeth and the tissues around them. X-rays can help the dentist find cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems that might not be obvious just by looking at the teeth.
X-rays are useful in dentistry because they help dentists find problems early on before they worsen. Ultimately, a dentist takes an X-ray by setting up the machine, and telling the patient to stay still while the picture is taken. The dentist then looks at the X-ray to determine the patient’s teeth health.
Oral Cancer Screening
Your dentist or hygienist may also check for oral cancer during the consultation. This means looking at your mouth to see any abnormal growths or sores.
A dentist will look for signs of cancerous, or precancerous cells in the mouth and throat.
Here’s how a dentist usually does an oral cancer screening:
Visual Inspection
First, the dentist will look at the mouth and throat using a dental mirror and light to see inside the mouth. They will look for lumps, bumps, patches, or sores that don’t heal.
Palpation
The dentist may also use their fingers to check the mouth, and throat for lumps or other problems (Don’t worry, they should be wearing gloves while doing this). They may also look for swelling or pain in the lymph nodes in the neck. As they may point to possible oral infection.
Tests for specialties
To help with the screening process, the dentist may also use special tests or tools. For example, they might use a special light to find abnormal cells you can’t see with your own eyes. They might also use a special dye to help find cells that aren’t performing properly. Feel free to ask your dentist what special testing services they offer.
Risk Factors
The dentist will also ask if you use tobacco, drink alcohol, or have a history of cancer in your family. They may also ask if you have any symptoms, like a hoarse voice that doesn’t go away or trouble swallowing.
Treatment Recommendations
Based on the results of your examination and any X-rays taken, your dentist or hygienist will provide you with a recommended course of treatment. Depending on your needs, this may include dental teeth cleaning, fillings, root canals, or other procedures.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
Your dentist or hygienist will also provide you with an estimate of the cost of your treatment and any insurance coverage available to you.
It’s important to understand the costs associated with your treatment plan and to make sure you can pay for the necessary procedures. Don’t worry, though, these things are taken care of from the beginning. Discuss it with their receptionist when you call them, or do a walk-in.
In conclusion, a dental teeth consultation is important to maintaining good oral health. By understanding what to expect during a consultation, you can be better prepared to make informed decisions about your oral health, and treatment options. If need may be.