Dental Exams in Buffalo, NY

Experienced Buffalo Dentists Providing Comprehensive Dental Exams and Cleanings

Dental exams form an essential role in preventative dentistry, the type of dentistry concerned with the prevention of oral disease.

Brushing with toothpaste, flossing, and rinsing with fluoridated mouthwash on a daily basis are important for staving off the incidence of bacterial infection and tooth degradation, but it is only with the guidance of a dental health care professional that your daily regimen can be completely effective. Dentists are able to thoroughly inspect their patients’ mouths, detecting areas where even the most diligent of brushers and flossers cannot help but overlook, such as the deep pockets between teeth and the zone around the molars. It is in these regions of the mouth that the teeth and the gums are most susceptible to infection and deterioration, and only a dentist can effectively examine these parts of the mouth in order to determine the efficacy of everyday brushing and flossing.

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Dental Exams in Buffalo, NYThe American Dental Association recommends that everyone, regardless of age, schedule a dental exam at least two times each year. Individuals who are prone to cavities or gum disease may find it beneficial to schedule exams more often, but the minimum of two exams per year is a solid baseline in the fight against problems with oral hygiene. During a dental examination, a dentist will inspect the entire mouth for signs of decay in the teeth and their roots as well as for indicators of disease in the gums and the jawbones. Because the alignment of the jaws is crucial to overall dental health, a dentist will look for issues with a patient’s bite and alignment. From there, the attention will turn to the shape and fortitude of the teeth themselves; the dentist will remove any stains, tartar, or plaque that happen to have accumulated on the surfaces of the teeth or in the spaces between them. This cleaning process will also enable the dentist to tell whether a particular tooth may warrant restoration or removal. If there is evidence to suggest that a tooth or gum disease is present, a digital dental X-ray will be taken of part or the whole of the mouth, allowing the dentist to more comprehensively evaluate the situation. Should a pocket of tartar, a reduction in bone density, or another telltale sign of infection appear, the dentist will be able to determine the next steps to begin the healing process.

Consultations allow patients some agency in their treatment of any dental issues that they may be facing. Discoloration of a tooth, bleeding while flossing, and swelling of the gums next to a tooth can all be signs of infection or decay, which is why anyone experiencing the onset of such a problem should reach out to her or his dentist right away. Patients can ask their dentists to screen for oral cancer, periodontitis, abscesses, and any other complication that may have arisen. If grinding has become a problem, a dentist can make an impression of the jaw and use it to create a retainer. If a swelling resembling a pimple has appeared next to a tooth, a dentist can inspect the tooth for a cavity and decide whether a referral to an endodontist for a root canal would be warranted. Dentists may be mandated to attend to teeth, they are also responsible for serving as allies to their patients. When a patient has a need or a burning question, a dentist will help.

FAQ About Dental Exams

How Often Do You Need A Dental Exam?

Your teeth should be cleaned and checked at least every six months. Depending on your overall oral health and your habits your dental hygienist or dentist may recommend visits more than twice a year. To prevent any dental problems and to properly maintain great oral health cleanings and regular visits are essential.

How Much Does A Dental Exam Cost?

On average with insurance you can expect to pay around $50 with some leaning more towards $80. If you do not have insurance and are wanting more services such as a basic cleaning and x-rays you could spend a large amount of money in one visit, around $300.

What Is Included in A Dental Check Up?

When you go for a dental check up the first thing the hygienist or dentist will do is look for any cavities. If needed they will take x-rays to see if you have developed any cavities in between your teeth. They will also see if there is any tartar or plaque on your teeth. The next thing they will take a look at is your gums. Your visit may also include an examination of your neck, head, face and tongue. Sometimes cleanings are performed during your examination it all depends on what you’re in need of. Checkups do not hurt; they may be uncomfortable but that is about it.

What Do Dentists Do During A Cleaning?

The first thing they do during a cleaning is an examination of your gums and teeth. When they do this, they are looking at the state of your teeth and are looking to see if there are any signs on infection or any other issues. The next step is to remove any tartar and plaque on your teeth. They will then remove any stains by polishing your teeth. The next step is to have your teeth flossed and possibly have a fluoride treatment.

 

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Schedule an appointment with Teach Dental Group today!  Our experienced Buffalo dentists have provided dental exams and cleanings to patients throughout the Southtowns for over 40 years.

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