What Happens During An Oral Exam?
Sometimes, the importance of oral exams can be underestimated. People often avoid them in order to cut costs, but they are crucial in the maintenance of good oral health, and following a good oral care regimen can actually save money in the long run by fixing small problems before they become big problems. How else will Dr. Khan and Smiles Dental Studio in Sacramento, CA be able to diagnose you for certain dental conditions and fill in cavities if you do not have oral exams? If you’re unsure as to how a typical oral exam transpires, then here is a step-by-step guide:
Step One: You will be asked for your medical history.
If you do not want things to go awry, then you need to be as honest as you possibly can when filling in your medical history. Dr. Khan, the hygienist or receptionist will ask you a couple of questions or give you a questionnaire for you to answer. You may be asked about the current medications you are taking, including vitamins and natural remedies, and whether you smoke or drink alcohol, if you have any allergies and adverse reactions anesthetics, your existing medical conditions, and your history of hospitalizations and surgeries.
Your answers will help Dr. Khan and Smiles Dental Studio to determine which procedures and medications are suitable for you, and which ones you should avoid. For instance, people with hemophilia should not go through invasive procedures unless certain precautions are made.
Step Two: The actual check-up.
Once you’ve provided your medical history, Dr. Khan can then start with the actual dental check-up. Smiles Dental Studio in Sacramento, CA will evaluate every surface of your teeth for the presence of cavities, as well as tartar deposits. Dr. Khan may also order dental x-rays if you are due for them, they help the dentist evaluate your oral health and identify issues such as an impacted tooth or a tooth that has only partially erupted.
Another part of the dental check-up is the evaluation of your gums. It’s important to evaluate the status of your gums in order to diagnose the presence of any existing gum disease. Dr. Khan may have to refer you to a periodontist in Sacramento, CA if you have severe gum disease.
Step Three: Patient education.
Right after the check-up, expect to be given detailed instructions for taking care of your teeth and gums on your own. You might be prescribed a special kind of mouth rinse or toothpaste which will help control your existing dental conditions or even treat them. You may also need special dental appliances such as mouth guards and bite guards.
Make sure you visit Smiles Dental Studios in Sacramento, Ca at least once every six months to ensure optimal oral care. Call today to set up your appointment.