Answers to commonly asked dental questions
Why is a dental exam needed?
Dental exams are important to protect your oral health & prevent any existing dental problems from becoming serious & painful dental emergencies.
10 signs to go see a dentist as soon as possible.
- It’s been more than 12 months since your last dental exam and/or cleaning
- Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold
- Your gums are puffy, or they bleed when you brush or floss
- You have persistent bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
- You have pain or swelling in your mouth, face, or neck
- You have difficulty chewing or swallowing
- You have a family history of gum disease or decay or you smoke or use other tobacco products
- Your mouth is often dry
- Your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up; you have an uneven bite
- You have a spot or sore that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth and isn’t going away
How often should you get a dental exam done?
Do not wait until you feel pain or discomfort to go see a dentist. It is recommended to have a dental exam every twelve months. In some cases, patients would need to go to their dental office three or four times a year for special cleanings if they experience any type of gum disease like gingivitis. Visiting the dental office at least twice a year for cleanings is very important to detect dental problems as early as possible. Many dental issues do not cause pain or discomfort when they start. Visiting the dentist regularly can help you prevent a dental emergency that could cause you pain & cost more money to correct.
What to expect on a dental exam?
Most of the time, a dental exam includes a complete oral evaluation & dental x-rays if needed. Dental x-rays can show cavities, gum disease, bone loss, & other problems that can’t be seen with just a check-up. x-rays will help your dentist diagnose dental problems before they become too severe or advanced. If you are a new patient, your new dentist will recommend x-rays to determine the present status of your oral health.
Are dental x-rays safe?
The radiation in a dental x-ray is so low that it is considered safe for adults & children; this procedure only takes a few minutes. At sage dental, we offer digital X-rays, which produce less radiation than traditional x-rays & are also more efficient. Find a location near you to make an appointment today.
