| The dental examination shows
how healthy your mouth is. After the examination, you and your
dentist can discuss the results and plan the best way to deal
with any problems.
What will my dentist do?
As well as looking in your mouth, the dentist will
ask you some questions. These may include the following:
• Why you’ve come for an examination
• Any problems you’ve noticed
(such as pain or sensitivity).
• Your general health and any
medicines you might be taking
(because these can affect your dental care).
• Your diet (sugary
snacks and drinks can cause tooth decay).
• How you clean your
teeth
(correct cleaning helps prevent decay and gum disease).
• Smoking
and drinking (both can harm your mouth).
The questions will depend on what the dentist
sees in your mouth. You should expect your dentist to:
• Look at your face and neck to see that they are healthy;
•
Feel under your jaw;
• Look inside your mouth, at your tongue,
the roof of your mouth and the back of your throat ;
• Look
at your teeth and gums for signs of decay, damage or gum disease
(for children, your dentist will also look at tooth and jaw development
in case orthodontic treatment is needed);
• Compare your mouth
now with how it was when they last saw you;
• Decide whether
they need more information from x-rays, etc
• Tell you about
any treatment needed, explaining the choices and whether there will
be any cost
* The examinations may take longer if you
are seeing a new dentist for the first time.
What are the benefits?
• Regular examinations mean that your dentist can spot problems
and correct them early before the treatment becomes complicated.
• A thorough examination helps you and your dentist look after
your mouth
and prevent future problems. The dentist will explain the option
and
then you can decide together what will be best for you. |
