A routine dental examination is a regular checkup with a dentist to ensure your oral health is in good condition. During this exam, the dentist will typically:
- Review your medical history: The dentist may ask about any changes in your health, medications, or lifestyle to spot any issues that might affect your oral health.
- Examine your teeth and gums: The dentist will visually inspect your teeth for cavities, wear, or other signs of decay, and check your gums for signs of infection or disease.
- Check for signs of oral cancer: The dentist will examine your mouth, cheeks, tongue, throat, and neck for any unusual lumps, bumps, or changes in tissue, as these can indicate cancer or other serious conditions.
- X-rays (if needed): If necessary, the dentist might take X-rays to get a more detailed view of your teeth and bone structure to check for problems that are not visible during a physical exam, like cavities between teeth or issues beneath the gums.
These exams are typically recommended every six months. Regular checkups help prevent serious dental issues down the road.
