Preserve Oral Health With Regular Visits To A Scarborough Dentist

Regular visits to a Scarborough dentist are the most effective way to avoid painful dental problems that can become debilitating and expensive to treat. Many experts recommend the average person get a thorough dental exam approximately every six months. Anyone with diabetes, gum disease or a weakened immune system is advised to schedule more frequent visits.

A reputable dentist will be interested in all aspects of the patient's health and should take a complete history during the first visit. Several diseases can negatively affect the teeth and gums. Diabetics are prone to developing periodontal disease and blood sugar levels can be influenced by infections. Certain health conditions may require the use of a different anesthesia if the patient has to be put under for extensive work.

A routine exam will include inspection of the lips, cheek lining and tongue, as well as the floor and roof of the mouth. The dentist will be looking for cuts, growths, spots and inflammation of the soft tissue. Any of these could be an indication of an oral health problem that needs further attention.

The gums should be a healthy pink color with no inflammation. A sharp tool may be used to poke the gums gently so see if they bleed readily. The teeth are examined for signs of decay. A mirror will be used to inspect all sides of each tooth. A tool known as an explorer is used to poke the teeth in search of soft spots. Enamel that has decayed is softer than healthy enamel. X-rays will detect cavities and other problems that cannot be seen with the naked eye like impacted teeth, jawbone damage, cysts and decay taking place between teeth.

Professional cleaning methods remove tartar from the teeth near the gum line. Ultrasonic tools are typically used to get rid of large pieces of tartar. Regular brushing and flossing between visits will impede the accumulation of tartar on the teeth and make the cleaning process easier.

After tartar is removed, polishing may be necessary to remove surface stains and any remaining plaque. A rotating brush is used to apply a gritty substance to the surface. This substance will scrub the stains away. Sometimes a dental hygienist will handle the duties of cleaning and polishing teeth.

Even people who brush and floss regularly may face oral problems as they get older. Gingivitis is a common problem that is reversible when caught in the early stages. Swollen gums that bleed easily and are red and tender are symptoms of this gum disease. Some studies show a link between other health issues like heart disease and diabetes to gum disease. Recurrent decay may be found in a tooth around an existing filling. Sensitivity to temperature is another common problem that increases as the gums recede with age. Most people get relief when using toothpaste specially formulated to reduce the sensitivity.

The best way to avoid oral health problems is to schedule regular visits with a qualified Scarborough dentist and keep up with flossing and brushing in between visits.