A guide to the power of dental exams in four Frequently Asked Questions
At The Art of Dentistry, we know that the best dental problem is the one that never happens in the first place! Our approach to dental care in Lilburn, Georgia, blends the art and science of dentistry to stay ahead of potential problems with the teeth, gums, and other oral structures. Fundamental to this proactive approach are comprehensive exams scheduled at least once every six months and conducted by our highly skilled dentist, Dr. Moosa Dalwai.
What happens during an exam?
Dr. Dalwai takes a peek inside your mouth. He uses his knowledge and experience to pinpoint potential early-stage problems, such as early gum disease or enamel erosion — a precursor to cavities and more extensive decay. As needed, he will recommend treatments or modifications to hygiene to prevent further damage and even to potentially save a broken or damaged tooth. Digital X-rays are also used routinely to see what cannot be detected with the eyes alone. Of course, your mouth is not “just” the teeth and gums. Dr. Dalwai will also assess for potential anomalies with the jaw joints or suspicious lumps, bumps, and discoloration (that could be indicative of oral precancers or cancerous lesions).
How often do I need to be evaluated?
Exams are part of every routine dental check-up. Dentists generally advise that these check-ups occur at least two times per year, or around once every six months. During these visits, the Dentist will also clean your teeth and gum line. They have the special training and dental instruments to effectively, yet gently, remove stubborn plaque (or tartar, which does not budge with regular toothbrushes and OTC products). We may need to clean and examine your teeth more regularly if you have risk factors for dental disease.
Why would I need to be examined more often?
There are numerous reasons Dr. Dalwai may want to see you more frequently. For instance, you may have existing co-morbidities or diseases that put you at increased risk of developing aggressive or advanced gum disease. Or, you may smoke and have other risks of developing oral cancers. We need to detect and intervene with these problems before they threaten the health of your smile and the rest of you. If you are actively undergoing treatment to resolve the likes of gum disease, we will also follow up with you to ensure recommendations are working as intended.
My mouth feels and looks fine. Do I still need to maintain check-ups?
Yes! When a disease is in its early stage and most treatable, the symptoms are often subtle, if they exist at all. We have the onsite expertise and tools to accurately and promptly detect these subtle changes to keep your mouth healthy. The Art of Dentistry also has an array of products and services that can only be found at the “pros.” These professional services include dental sealants and fluoride therapy. Sealants and fluoride may be applied quickly and easily during routine check-ups to protect decay-prone teeth from damage.
If you are due for a check-up, schedule one today. Call our team in Lilburn, GA, at (470) 570-9699 to get your mouth back on the right, healthy track.
