A routine dental exam is an essential part of maintaining your oral health. Dentists in Columbia IL visits allow your dentist to thoroughly evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, identify potential issues, and provide preventive care to avoid more serious dental problems down the line. Here’s what you can expect during a typical dental exam.
When you first arrive, you’ll be asked to complete or update any medical history forms. It’s important to share any changes in your overall health, including medications you’re taking or any recent surgeries, as this information helps your dentist provide the best care for you.
Once you’re seated in the dental chair, the dental hygienist will begin by performing a Columbia Dentists . This process involves using special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing. The hygienist will use a scaler to gently scrape off any tartar and plaque from the surface of your teeth, paying particular attention to areas around the gumline and between the teeth.
After the cleaning, the hygienist will polish your teeth with a special abrasive paste. This helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and shiny. They may also floss your teeth to remove any remaining debris from between your teeth.
Next, your dentist will perform a comprehensive oral exam. This exam typically includes a visual inspection of your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for signs of common dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Your dentist may use a small mirror and probe to check the surfaces of your teeth for cavities or other issues that may not be visible.
During this time, your dentist will also assess the health of your gums. They will gently measure the space between your gums and teeth to check for signs of gum disease. Healthy gums should have a shallow pocket around the teeth, but deeper pockets may indicate gingivitis or periodontitis, which require treatment.