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Regular dental check-ups are an essential aspect of maintaining good oral health. During these check-ups, a dentist performs a full-mouth examination to check for any potential issues that could impact your oral health. This examination is critical for detecting dental problems early on and preventing them from becoming more severe.

Full Mouth Inspection

During a full-mouth examination, the dentist will perform a full-mouth inspection to check for  any potential issues. This inspection includes examining your teeth, gums, tongue, and other soft tissues in your mouth. 

The dentist will use a small mirror to get a closer look at your teeth and gums and look for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues. The dentist will also check for any signs of oral cancer, which can include lumps or bumps in your mouth, white or red patches on your gums or tongue, or other abnormal growths.

Check For Signs of Infection

During the full-mouth inspection, the dentist will also check for signs of infection in your gums or teeth. 

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a common issue that can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems. The dentist will look for signs of redness, swelling, and bleeding in your gums, which can indicate gum disease. They will also check for any pockets or gaps between your teeth and gums, which can be a sign of gum disease.

If the dentist identifies any signs of infection or gum disease, they may recommend treatment options to prevent the condition from becoming more severe. Treatment options can include deep cleaning, antibiotics, or gum surgery.

Dental X-Rays, If Necessary

In some cases, the dentist may need to use dental X-rays to get a closer look at your teeth and detect any potential issues that cannot be seen during the full-mouth inspection. Dental X-rays can help the dentist identify issues such as cavities, impacted teeth, or other issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.

The dentist will typically take two types of dental X-rays: intra-oral and extra-oral. 

Intra-oral X-rays are taken inside the mouth and include bitewing X-rays, which show the crowns of the upper and lower teeth, and periapical X-rays, which show the entire tooth, including the root. 

Extra-oral X-rays are taken outside the mouth and include panoramic X-rays, which show a broad view of the mouth, teeth, and jaws, and cephalometric X-rays, which show the head and neck.

Oral Infections To Look Out For Between Examinations

Oral infections can occur at any time and can be caused by a range of factors, including poor oral hygiene, a weakened immune system, and certain medications. 

While regular dental check-ups and full-mouth examinations are crucial for maintaining good oral health. You must also be aware of the signs and symptoms of oral infections that can occur between these appointments. Below, we will discuss some of the most common oral infections to look out for between mouth examinations.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that occurs when the gums become inflamed due to plaque build-up and tartar on the teeth. The symptoms of gingivitis include red, swollen, and tender gums, bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, and bad breath. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems.

To prevent gingivitis, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. If you notice any signs of gingivitis, you must schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent the condition from progressing.

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can occur inside the mouth, including the tongue, gums, and cheeks. The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they can be triggered by a range of factors, including stress, certain foods, and hormonal changes.

The symptoms of canker sores include small, painful red or white sores in the mouth, difficulty eating or speaking, and a burning or tingling sensation in the affected area. Canker sores typically heal on their own within one to two weeks, but over-the-counter pain medications and topical creams can help relieve symptoms and speed up the healing process.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection that occurs when the Candida fungus overgrows in the mouth. This infection is most common in infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, but it can also occur in people who use certain medications or have certain medical conditions.

The symptoms of oral thrush include white or yellow patches on the tongue, the roof of the mouth, or inside the cheeks, a painful or burning sensation in the mouth, and difficulty eating or swallowing. 

Oral thrush can be treated with antifungal medications, but it’s important to visit your dentist if you suspect you have this infection to receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Oral infections can occur at any time and can be caused by a range of factors. 

Dental Insurance Helps Cover the Costs

Regular dental check-ups and full-mouth examinations are crucial for maintaining good oral health. Affinity Dental insurance ensures that you have access to the care you need at all times without surprise expenses.