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Going to the
Dentist
The main reason for going to the dentist regularly - every
6 months - is prevention. The goal is to
prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other disorders that put
the health of your teeth and mouth at risk.
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The
Examination
Your first consultation with a dentist will probably
consist of three main parts: a dental and medical history, a
dental examination, and a professional cleaning.
Once your
history is taken, the dentist will examine your teeth, gums,
and other mouth tissues. Also, the dentist may examine the
joints of your jaws.
When examining
your teeth, your dentist will use a mirror and probe (a metal
pick-like instrument) to look at the crown (visible part) of
each tooth, looking for plaque and evidence of looseness or
decay. The dentist will also check your bite, the way your
teeth fit together (also called occlusion).
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Your dentist
will also examine the general condition of your gums, which
should be firm and pink, and not soft, swollen, or inflamed. A
probe will be used to check the depth of the sulcus,
the slight depression where each tooth meets the gum. Deep
depressions, called pockets, are evidence of gum disease.
After examining
the visible parts of your teeth and mouth, your dentist will
take X-rays that might reveal tooth decay, abscesses
(collections of pus surrounded by swollen tissue), or impacted
wisdom teeth.
Professional
cleaning is usually performed by a dental hygienist, a
specially trained and licensed dental professional. Once the teeth
are cleaned, they are polished. The process cleans and
smoothes the surfaces of the teeth, removing stains and making
it harder for plaque to stick to the teeth.
Finally, the
dentist or hygienist may treat your teeth with a fluoride
compound or a sealant to help prevent decay.
At the end of
your visit, the receptionist will arrange future
visits or let you know if you need to return sooner - to fill
a cavity, for example. Your dentist may also refer you to an
orthodontist if he or she thinks you may need braces.
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