You probably know that visiting your dentist in North Vancouver on a regular basis is essential in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But did you know that many other issues are related to your dental health too?
During a regular check-up, your dentist can spot early signs of health problems that you may not be able to see or feel on your own. Generally, there are two parts to a dental check-up: an oral examination and a thorough cleaning. During the examination, your dentist will look for:
Early signs of cavities
Missing or decaying teeth
Damaged teeth
Signs of gum disease
Early signs of mouth, throat or thyroid cancers
Other suspicious growths, such as cysts
Correct positioning of your teeth
Signs of a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder
Issues with facial, jaw, or mouth bones
Your dentist will also check your neck area for signs of inflammation in your lymph nodes and glands which can be an indication of health problems elsewhere in your body. If any problems are found they'll inform your family doctor. He or she may also poke along the gum line around each tooth and call out a number to the hygienist. This process measures the health of your gums and the bone density around each tooth. Generally, 1 to 3 are considered healthy numbers. Dental x-rays may also be done, which can detect bone loss and other problems lurking below the gum line. A routine oral examination at our dental clinic in North Vancouver can reveal problems early on when they are easier and less expensive to treat. By taking preventative measures now, you can save thousands of dollars in future procedures. What to expect during your dental cleaning: Once the oral examination is complete, your dentist or hygienist will move on to the cleaning. Here's what you can expect, they will:
Check the general cleanliness of your mouth, teeth and gums
Remove any plaque and tartar build-up
Polish your teeth
Floss between your teeth
Review brushing and flossing techniques
Do you need a dentist in North Vancouver? Regular dental check-ups are important not only for your teeth but also for your overall well-being. At District Dental in North Vancouver, we are dedicated to your family's health. If you need a dentist, give us a call at 604-980-7581 to book an appointment. If you have any questions about our services, you can also send us a message through the contact form on our website.