See What's Underneath with Our 98271 Dentist and Our Dental Exams and X-Rays
Routine dental exams are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and they play a significant role in preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments in the future. According to the Academy of General Dentistry, it is recommended that individuals of all ages schedule check ups twice a year. These regular visits help catch potential issues early, before they develop into more serious problems.
How It’s Done
During a dental exam at Sunrise Dental, our 98271 dentist will use a combination of visual inspection and specialized dental equipment to thoroughly evaluate your oral health. The process typically involves the following steps:
1. Visual Examination
Dr. Hsieh, Dr. Hatem, or Dr. Chi will begin by examining your mouth using tools such as mouth mirrors, various dental instruments, and high-intensity lights. This allows them to inspect the surfaces of your teeth and gums for signs of any issues. Key areas of focus include:
- Medical History Review: Any new medical conditions or changes in your health that might impact your dental well-being will be renewed.
- Tooth Decay Examination: Your teeth will be checked for cracks, decay, or damage that may require attention.
- Oral Cancer Screening: A thorough examination of your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums will be conducted to detect any signs of oral cancer early.
- Gum Disease Evaluation: Your gums and the bone surrounding your teeth will be assessed for any indications of periodontal disease.
- Assessment of Existing Restorations: Current fillings, crowns, and other dental restorations will be checked to ensure they are in good condition.
2. Diagnostic X-Rays To gain a comprehensive view of your dental health, our 98271 dentist will take diagnostic x-rays. These images help identify any issues not visible during the visual examination, particularly those below the gum line. Typically, bitewing x-rays are taken every 12 months to monitor areas between the teeth, while a panoramic x-ray, which captures a broad view of your entire mouth, is taken every 3 to 5 years to evaluate the overall structure and detect any underlying problems.
Routine dental exams at Sunrise Dental are designed to ensure that your oral health is well-maintained and to catch any potential issues early. By visiting our 98271 dentist office regularly, you can prevent more severe problems down the road and maintain a healthy, confident smile. Schedule your next checkup with us today and take a proactive approach to your dental health.