Dental Exams in Wesley Chapel
Luz Hernandez DDS provides dental exam services in Wesley Chapel, FL. Call 813-994-8999 to learn more and schedule your appointment.
Comprehensive dental exams are recommended every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy, but these appointments are important for your overall health, too. Many illnesses first present as symptoms in the mouth, and oral health issues like gum disease can contribute to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular problems.
What Happens During a Comprehensive Oral Evaluation?
Comprehensive oral evaluations and dental cleanings are typically scheduled for the same appointment; these visits are commonly referred to as dental check-ups. During your dental examination, your dentist or hygienist may:
- Check for signs of decay
- Look for signs of periodontal disease and measure the depth of any periodontal pockets
- Ask about any medications you’re currently prescribed
- Take dental x-rays
- Evaluate occlusion (bite)
- Evaluate the jaw and TMJ
- Discuss proper brushing and flossing habits
- Remove stains, tartar, and plaque
- Polish and floss your teeth
- Take a dental impression
Another important part of the comprehensive dental evaluation is the oral cancer exam. This involves examining the cheeks, gums, tongue, under the jaw, and the sides of the neck for signs of oral cancer. Should we find any suspicious lesions, you will be referred to a specialist for a biopsy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Comprehensive Dental Exams
How long should a dental exam take?
Most comprehensive dental exams take 45 minutes to an hour.
Do dental exams hurt?
No, there should be no pain during a dental exam. If you have any sensitive areas in your mouth, let your hygienist know before your dental cleaning. Most patients find that our modern ultrasonic scaler removes plaque and tartar without any discomfort!
How can I remove tartar from my teeth without going to the dentist?
Plaque can be removed from your teeth by brushing and flossing, but once plaque hardens into tartar, the professional tools of a dentist are needed to remove it.
What happens if tartar is not removed?
Tartar harbors bacteria that can cause gum disease or tooth decay. This is why it’s important to remove it in a timely manner, before it compromises your dental health.
Can a dentist tell if you have oral cancer?
No, dentists can’t tell if you have oral cancer; however a dentist can identify suspicious lesions or growths. A biopsy is needed to determine whether these are cancerous or benign.
Call (813) 238-7725 to schedule your appointment.