More than just cleaning your teeth, your dentist looks at other parts of your mouth to make sure it is in great health. From your jaws to your gums, there are many aspects of your mouth that contribute to your overall oral health. Here are a few things your dentist will inspect during your dental cleaning exam.

Present Tooth or Root Decay

Tooth and root decay are largely caused by plaque that has forced its way through the enamel of your teeth. It destroys the health of your teeth and can cause pain. By regularly flossing and brushing your teeth, you can eliminate plaque’s presence and improve your oral health. (Note – plaque forms when bacteria, acid, and food combine. By decreasing your sugary and sticky food intake, you are reducing plaque formation.)

Jaw Issues

If your jaw is misaligned, it could create problems such as an improper bite, difficulty chewing, speech issues, and more. Your dentist will determine if there are any substantial jaw problems present, how it may be affecting your teeth, and what treatment options are available.

Overall Oral Hygiene

Your dental hygiene consists of your breath, jaw, gums, teeth, tongue, and every other area within your mouth. All of it contributes to good (or bad) oral hygiene. By assessing the quality of all areas in your mouth, your dentist can make recommendations on how to improve your oral hygiene.

Restorative Options

If you have recently lost a tooth (as an adult) or had a tooth extracted, your dentist may discuss replacement options such as dentures or bridges. It’s important to fill in the gap as soon as possible, as you may experience bone loss, shifting teeth, or receding gums if the gap is allowed to stay.

Dr. Strandburg has helped hundreds of patients have better oral hygiene which contributes to their overall health! If you need a dental cleaning or have any questions about oral health, don’t hesitate to contact us today.