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During a dental exam, your dentist will carefully assess your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. By identifying and addressing potential issues early, you can save time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
Feeling a little overdue for a dental exam? We understand. At Meridian Dental, you’ll find a friendly, judgment-free zone where we’re committed to helping you achieve a healthy smile.
So what exactly is a dental exam? A dental exam is when a dentist looks in your mouth to identify signs of dental problems and ensure your teeth, gums, and mouth are healthy.
Regular dental exams are important for maintaining good oral health and preventing issues like cavities and gum disease.
The term dental exam and dental checkup are often used interchangeably.
A “dental exam” is generally considered a more thorough assessment of your oral health by the dentist, while a “dental checkup” usually refers to a routine visit that includes an examination, cleaning, and x-rays.
Most of the time, every dental checkup is going to include a dental exam.
An important part of your scheduled checkup is the dental exam with the dentist.
After being brought back to the operatory, meeting the hygienist, and getting x-rays, Dr. Gurr will speak with you about concerns, questions, or any suspected issues you may have.
The doctor will then take a look at your x-rays and mouth. The doctor will then review the x-rays / results with you and if necessary, start a treatment plan.
If everything looks good and there are no issues, your cleaning can be performed and your next checkup and exam can be scheduled.
Dental exams run concurrent with dental checkups and are typically recommended every six months. However, the frequency may vary depending on factors such as:
If you have a history of cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems, you may need more frequent exams.
Certain medications can affect your oral health, so your dentist may recommend more frequent exams.
If you have risk factors for dental problems, such as smoking or diabetes, you may also need more frequent exams.
It’s best to consult with your dentist to determine the appropriate frequency of dental exams for your individual needs.
Regular dental exams offer numerous benefits for your oral and overall health. Here are some of the most important:
Dental exams can help identify potential issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer early on, when they're easier and less expensive to treat.
By addressing problems early, you can prevent them from worsening and causing more serious complications, such as tooth loss or infections.
Oral health is linked to overall health. Research has shown that poor oral health can contribute to conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
A healthy smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Regular dental exams help maintain a beautiful smile.
Your dentist can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your individual needs and oral health history.
By prioritizing regular dental exams, you’re investing in your oral health and overall well-being.
Whether you’re due for a 6-month exam or it’s been a while since your last visit, Meridian Dental is here to help!
We offer a comfortable and friendly environment to make your dental checkup exceptional.
Contact Meridian Dental today to schedule a checkup
Come enjoy the best that dentistry has to offer at Meridian Dental.
The Perfect Location for Your Smile! Centrally located in Wasilla, we offer convenient access to exceptional dental care.
Mon - Thu: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Fri: 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
A dental exam is a routine checkup where a dentist examines your teeth, gums, and mouth to identify any signs of dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer.
It’s generally recommended to have a dental exam every six months. However, depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
Regular dental exams are crucial for early detection of dental issues, prevention of cavities and gum disease, and maintaining overall oral health. Early intervention can prevent more serious and costly dental problems in the future.
During a dental exam, the dentist will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of disease or other issues. They may take X-rays to detect hidden problems. The dental hygienist will clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup, followed by polishing them for a fresh finish.
Dental exams are generally not painful. Some patients may experience slight discomfort during an exam, but this is rare. Your dentist will ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
Brush and floss your teeth before your appointment, and make a list of any questions or concerns you may have about your oral health. Inform your dentist of any changes in your dental routine, medications, or overall health.
If you’re anxious about dental exams, let your dentist, hygienist, or office staff know. They can take extra steps to ensure your comfort, explain each part of the process, and discuss relaxation options if needed.
If an issue is identified, the dentist will discuss the diagnosis with you and recommend a treatment plan. This may involve procedures like fillings, deep cleaning, or further examinations depending on the problem.
A dental exam usually lasts between 30 minutes but can take longer depending on the patient’s oral health.
Most dental insurance plans cover routine dental exams. It’s best to check with your insurance provider or the dental office for specifics about coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.
Yes, you can eat before your dental exam. However, it’s recommended to brush your teeth afterward to ensure your mouth is clean before your appointment.
A dental exam involves a thorough check of your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of dental issues. A cleaning, often performed during the same visit, focuses on removing plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth to maintain oral health.
Unfortunately, you can’t fix a chipped tooth at home. However, we have several options depending on the severity of the chip. These include dental bonding, veneers, or crowns.
The cost of fixing a chipped tooth varies depending on the treatment needed and the size of the chip. Bonding is typically the most affordable option, followed by veneers and then crowns. Scheduling a consultation with Meridian Dental will allow us to assess the chip and provide a specific cost estimate.
