The Oral Exam
If you are unfamiliar with what to expect during a typical oral exam, Here are step-by-step process involved..Hope this will help you prepare before your visit.
The dental examination is a systematic process during which your dentist will investigate many facets of your oral and systemic health in order to identify pathologies or concerns and develop a uniquely customized treatment plan that is catered towards maximizing your oral health while meeting your goals and expectations.
That said, let's explore all the facets related to the oral exam at woodbridge smiles:
1. The Medical History Intake
During the medical history intake, your dentist collects information about you, including:
- List of medications you are currently taking.
- List of vitamins and natural healing remedies you are currently taking.
- Smoking and alcohol consumption.
- Allergy list.
- Previous experience with anesthesia.
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia.
- Family member reactions to anesthesia.
- Any medical conditions you are currently being treated for.
- Previous surgeries or hospitalizations.
This information allows your dentist to identify necessary precautions for treatment.
It is an integral first step in treatment planning.
2. The Investigation
The second step of any oral health exam involves a thorough examination of your teeth and supporting structures.
While this may seem like a straightforward objective, it is its own process that involves the incorporation of various techniques, technologies and therapies.
- Cavity Detection, check for worn out fillings from past.
- Check for calculus deposits.
- Full-mouth X-rays or bitewings (molars and premolars) to detect abnormalities not visible to the naked eye.
- Periodontal probing to measure the circumference of each tooth and the strength of the supporting bone structure.
3. The Education
Following the investigative stage of your oral exam, your dentist will spend some time with you talking about his/her findings, concerns and any problematic issues. You may be advised to consult with a specialist if more complicated or advanced work is required.
A treatment plan is discussed at this point in the visit.
- Professional cleaning is recommended every six months or as often as every two months should you be at risk for periodontal disease, are a smoker or a diabetic.
4. The Take-Home Bag
At the end of your oral health exam, each patient will recieve a complimentary take-home hygiene kit from woodbridge smiles designed to promote at-home oral health practices.
Your take-home bag may include:
- New toothbrush or interdental brush
- Floss
- Rubber tip stimulator
- Tongue cleaner
There's nothing better than proper dental hygiene to preserve your teeth for all the years to come. By keeping your mouth healthy, you thwart many potential dental problems, keep your smile bright, call us at 703-910-4805 to make an appointment today