Dentistry: It's More Than Drilling and Filling

Dentistry: It's More Than Drilling and Filling

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Dentistry: It's More Than Drilling and Filling

Many people think of dentists as the providers who drill and fill your teeth when you have a cavity. It's true that this is part of their job, but it is only one small piece of what they do. Dentists also provide cleaning services. They can put a crown on a badly cracked or damaged tooth, and they can perform a root canal if the delicate tissues inside your tooth become infected. Dental care is comprehensive, and it is important through every stage of life. We don't think you need to be an expert in dentistry; that's your dentist's job. But we do think you should read some of the articles provided here to gain a better understanding of the work dentists do.

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Oral Health Conditions Detected During Regular Cleanings

8 December 2023
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Taking care of your oral health is essential to your overall well-being. While brushing and flossing are crucial components of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, scheduling regular dental cleanings with your dentist is equally crucial. Dental cleanings detect and prevent possible issues that may affect your oral health. 

Gum Disease

Gingivitis, or gum disease, is caused by the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and further complications. During a dental cleaning, your dentist can spot early signs of gingivitis and recommend appropriate treatment to halt its progress. Treatment can include deep cleaning, root planing, and antibiotic treatment.

Cavities

Even the most diligent brusher and flosser can miss areas that require extra care, leading to tooth decay. Regular dental cleanings allow your dentist to detect cavities early on, preventing them from advancing to the point where they require more invasive treatments like root canals or extraction.

Oral Cancer

Early detection is key when it comes to oral cancer. During a dental cleaning, your dentist checks your oral tissues for signs of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions. Early detection saves lives, making regular dental checkups vital to your overall health.

TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull. This joint can become inflamed, causing pain and discomfort for those suffering from TMJ disorders. Your dentist can detect the early signs of a potential TMJ disorder during a dental cleaning and recommend treatment options such as mouthguards, medication, or physical therapy.

Bruxism

Bruxism is when you grind your teeth at night, leading to tooth damage, headaches, and jaw pain. During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist will check for signs of wear and tear on your teeth and examine your jaw for any signs of muscle tension or pain. They may recommend a mouthguard or other treatment options to help alleviate your symptoms.

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be an embarrassing problem. It may indicate poor oral hygiene and can also be associated with gum disease, cavities, or other oral health issues. A dental cleaning will help reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving you feeling fresh and confident. The dentist can also treat conditions that cause bad breath.

Regular dental cleanings are vital in maintaining optimum oral health. They help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy and allow your dentist to detect potential problems early on. Gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, TMJ disorders, and bad breath are some of the issues that dental professionals detect during routine dental cleaning. Prevention is always better than cure, and scheduling regular dental cleanings should be an essential component of your overall health and wellness routine.

Contact a dentist to schedule dental cleanings today.