Why are regular dental visits important?
Regular dental visits are important because they can help spot dental health problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. They also help prevent many problems from developing in the first place.
What should I expect on my first visit to the dentist?
Once you've found a dentist you like, your next step is to schedule a check-up — before any problems arise. On your first visit to a dentist, they will take a full health history. On subsequent visits, if your health status has changed, make sure to tell them. Most dental visits are checkups.
What happens when I visit the dentist for a checkup?
When you visit for a checkup, your dentist will look at your teeth and gums to check for any problems. The dentist also wants to make sure your teeth are developing properly as you grow. It's important to visit your dentist every 6 months to make sure you're taking good care of your teeth and that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Do I really need to see a dentist?
Yes. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still have dental health problems that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular dental visits will also help prevent problems from developing. Continuity of care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception.
What are the physical demands of a dentist?
Physical Demands While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, use hands, and to talk or hear. The employee is regularly required to walk, and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stoop. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
Why do dentists request medical history?
They consider your general health condition before going to the specifics of your dental health. In doing so, they are able to identify and improve your treatment.
What does a dentist do in a check up examination?
The dentist reviews the cleaning done by the hygienist, conducts an oral exam of your gums and teeth, diagnoses any oral health problems, orders X-rays (if appropriate) and make treatment recommendations. Check-ups are important not only for cleaning, but to find any problems early.
What health issues can a dentist detect?
6 Medical Conditions Your Dentist Can Detect FirstDiabetes. Many patients go to the dentist due to their persistent bad breath. ... Cancer. During routine oral exams, dentists can also detect any lumps or sores in your gums, tongue, cheeks, and even on your neck. ... Osteoporosis. ... Anemia. ... GERD or Acid Reflux. ... HIV.
Can my dentist access my medical records?
No. Your medical records are confidential. Nobody else is allowed to see them unless they: Are a relevant healthcare professional.
What questions do dentists ask patients?
Think of yourself as a dental detective and ask the following five questions of each and every patient.Have there been any changes to your medical history? ... Do you smoke or vape? ... When was your last physical? ... What are your goals for your teeth? ... Ask about them!
What is physical examination in medical?
Definition. Physical examination is the process of evaluating objective anatomic findings through the use of observation, palpation, percussion, and auscultation. The information obtained must be thoughtfully integrated with the patient's history and pathophysiology.
What is the difference between a dental exam and cleaning?
During a cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist scrapes plaque and tartar from your teeth. In an exam, the dentist will carefully look at your teeth, mouth and throat to identify any problems, such as cavities, gum disease, loose fillings and oral cancer.
Can a dentist tell if you have an infection?
Some infections have visible oral symptoms. Nevertheless, the dentist may also recommend an X-ray or CT scan to identify abscess and determine whether the infection has spread to other areas.
What is the connection between teeth and heart?
Gum disease (periodontitis) is associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease. Poor dental health increases the risk of a bacterial infection in the blood stream, which can affect the heart valves. Oral health may be particularly important if you have artificial heart valves.
Can a dentist tell if you have diabetes?
Dentists do not officially diagnose diabetes, this should be done by a physician. However, dentists can detect signs and symptoms of diabetes in people who are undiagnosed with type 2 adult onset diabetes.
What do dentists do on their first visit?
On your first visit to a dentist, they will take a full health history. On subsequent visits, if your health status has changed, make sure to tell them. Most dental visits are checkups.
What is the purpose of a dental exam?
A full examination. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums and mouth, looking for signs of disease or other problems. His or her goal is to help maintain your good oral health and to prevent problems from becoming serious, by identifying and treating them as soon as possible. X-rays.
What is a dental checkup?
A thorough cleaning. Checkups almost always include a complete cleaning, either from your dentist or a dental hygienist. Using special instruments, a dental hygienist will scrape below the gumline, removing built-up plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease, cavities, bad breath and other problems. Your dentist or hygienist may also polish and ...
Can a dentist do X-rays?
Depending on your age, risks of disease and symptoms, your dentist may recommend X-rays. X-rays can diagnose problems otherwise unnoticed, such as damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, and decay between the teeth. A modern dental office uses machines that emit virtually no radiation — no more than you would receive ...
What should a dentist have?
The dentist you choose should have excellent communication skills and be competent in managing any anxiety you may feel. Dentists who maintain an open line of communication can reinforce your confidence and help you establish a long-term patient-dentist relationship.
Why don't you brush before a dentist appointment?
Other dentists prefer you don’t brush or floss before your appointment because they would like to see where food becomes stuck in your teeth. This will show them where the problem areas are and where decay is likely to set in. Some dentists even say to have your breakfast or lunch and then come in to see them.
How to prepare for a dental check up?
Part of how to prepare for a dental check-up is writing down all questions and concerns you have so you can go over them with the dentist before your appointment. Having your concerns and questions addressed can help ease any fear or anxiety you have and prepare you better for what’s to come.
What to do before leaving dental office?
Before you leave the office, schedule your next check-up or cleaning and ask to be sent a reminder. This will ensure you keep up on your routine visits. Dental anxiety, fear and phobia are pervasive. Individuals with dental fear or anxiety can experience a sense of uneasiness when their appointment comes around.
Why do dentists wear retainers?
Many dental offices provide sleep apnea treatment that involves wearing an appliance during the night to help keep your airway open. Additionally, some individuals wear retainers after they’ve had orthodontic work. Others wear mouth guards to avoid clenching and grinding.
Why do you wear mouth guards?
Others wear mouth guards to avoid clenching and grinding. If you wear an oral appliance, no matter for what reason, make sure you bring it with you to your dental appointment so your dentist can give it a good scrub as well. These devices do form tartar, just like with teeth.
How to keep your teeth healthy?
Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been going to your dentist regularly for many years, a comprehensive examination, thorough cleaning and follow-up check-ups can help keep your gums and teeth healthier and your mouth feeling fresh. Preparing for a visit with the dentist is almost as essential as showing up. Below are some steps to follow to ensure your dental appointment goes as smoothly as possible.
What does a dentist look for when you brush your teeth?
As part of a routine check of your mouth, the dentist will also want to have a look at the foundations of your teeth , or in technical speak ‘your gums’! You may notice from time to time when you are brushing your teeth that there is a little bit of blood when you spit out.
How to make an appointment for a dental exam?
The first exam appointment is usually made via a phone call from the patient. Although these days, contact is often be made by e-mail, too. Any initial queries that you have can be answered and you can let the dentist know of any problems you have experienced in the past. You should find out in advance how long the appointment is likely to take ...
How to take x-rays of teeth?
These are usually taken by having you bite on a small tab which steadies the x-ray film in your mouth while the dentist positions the x-ray beam so that they can take the picture ( bitewing x-rays ). The x-ray beam looks exactly like a telescope. It’s usually on the end of a mechanical arm so it can be adjusted to get it close to the x-ray film for the best picture. It’s because the x-rays travel in a straight line (and the vastly decreased radiation of modern x-rays) that nowadays there’s no need to wear heavy lead aprons any more. The x-ray films that you hold in your mouth aren’t terribly mouth shaped and some people find them uncomfortable, but they’re usually over fairly quickly. These films are made of soft plastic and are about 3cm x 4cm in size, although smaller ones are available. The smaller x-ray films do not show as many teeth however and your dentist might have to take more pictures then. To hold the film in your mouth the dentist will ask you to gently close your teeth together on to a small paper tab or plastic holder whilst the film is in your mouth. If you feel something soft, like a sausage, between your teeth it might be the dentist’s finger! Please resist the urge to bite too hard…
What is the name of the device that a dentist uses to check for decay?
Diagnodent . Some dentists have a device called diagnodent. This is a gentle laser device that rests on the tooth and shines a light so that the dentist gets additional clues as to if there is any decay in the tooth. This means that your dentist may not have to poke at your teeth at all.
Why does my dentist poke my teeth?
Why does the dentist want to poke at my teeth? The dental ‘probe’ or ‘explorer’ can be used by your dentist to gently feel the bumps and valleys on the surface of the tooth. If the dentist notices any ‘tackiness’ on the surface of the tooth, it might be a soft area which would indicate decay is present.
Why do dentists wear glasses?
The dentist may also ask you to wear glasses when you lie back in the dental chair, especially if you’re having your teeth cleaned as part of the check-up. These are to protect your eyes in case there is any water splashing about.
How many bitewing films are there in a dental x-ray?
In the U.S., many dental offices take a full-mouth series ( FMX) of x-rays, consisting of 4 bitewing films and 14 periapical films (showing the tips of the roots and supporting bone). This is not done in the U.K.
What to do after first dental visit?
After your first visit, be sure to keep your dentist informed any time there is a change in your current health status. Let your dentist also know if you are pregnant, have developed allergies or are a smoker. Depending on your health status at the time of your visit, different treatment alternatives, or even delaying treatment, may be recommended.
What is included in a dental registration?
During your first dental visit, your dentist will ask for a thorough medical history, which typically is included on a patient registration. This section may include questions about lifestyle (such as smoking or involvement in high-risk sports) and family medical history.
What are the effects of diabetes on your teeth?
Diabetes, for instance, can increase the risk of periodontal (gum) disease.
Do insurance companies have to keep information confidential?
Insurance companies are required to keep that information confidential from anyone not directly involved with your care or with processing your insurance, just as are physicians, hospitals and other health service providers.
Can a dentist release a diagnosis?
You dentist cannot release any diagnosis or office visit information without your consent. You may be asked to sign a release form so that your dental office can provide that information to the insurance company for health insurance benefits.
What does a dentist do to check your teeth?
The dentist will look at all of your teeth and check your gums to make sure they're strong and healthy. The dentist will also check the way your top and bottom te eth work together. This is called your bite. If there might be a problem with your bite, you may be referred to an orthodontist (say: or-tho-DON-tist).
What does a dentist do?
The dentist is a doctor who is specially trained to care for teeth. When you visit for a checkup, your dentist will look at your teeth and gums to check for any problems. The dentist also wants to make sure your teeth are developing properly as you grow.
What is the first person you meet at the dentist's office?
One of the first people you'll meet at the dentist's office is the dental hygienist (say: hi-JEH-nist). A dental hygienist is a person who knows all about keeping teeth and gums clean and healthy. The dental hygienist will look inside your mouth to make sure your teeth are growing properly and your gums are healthy.
What does a dental hygienist do?
During your visit, the dental hygienist will take X-rays, or pictures, of your teeth. X-rays are like superhuman vision. They can show cavities hiding between your teeth and problems beneath your gums. A cavity is a decayed, or rotted, part of a tooth.
What is the best way to clean your teeth?
The dental hygienist will brush your teeth with a special toothbrush and toothpaste. The toothbrush has a small, round tip that moves around and around to clean your teeth. The toothpaste might taste like your own toothpaste at home, but it will feel a little grittier — almost like sand.
Why is flossing important?
Brushing and flossing are important, but you also need to visit your dentist regularly to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Let's learn more about what happens at the dentist's office.
What do dental hygienists use to clean teeth?
The dental hygienist will clean and polish your teeth, using tiny dental tools like a tooth scraper, mirror, and special toothbrush.
Why do we need a physical exam?
Yearly physical examinations can help spot high blood pressure, STIs including HIV/AIDS, and high cholesterol. They're good ways to remember your immunization schedule, too. But perhaps the most important job of the yearly doctor's visit is to screen for a variety of cancers, many of which are more easily treated—with better survival odds—if they are found early.
What does it mean when you look at your mouth?
Your throat and the back of your mouth can suggest how healthy your teeth are too. Your tonsils could be inflamed, which happens when you have acute tonsillitis. Abscesses may be spotted as well. Dental problems like periodontal disease or cracked, broken or missing teeth can be addressed. Whitish coatings of oral surfaces or the presence of other lesions may indicate signs of infection or other underlying health problems.
How to check for carotid narrowing?
By listening to the sides of the neck with a stethoscope, your doctor can screen for carotid narrowing by detecting a carotid bruit, an abnormal swooshing sound in the carotid artery.
What is the job of a stethoscope?
A stethoscope magnifies sounds like your heart beat. Making sure your heart is in good working order is perhaps the primary job of a stethoscope.
Why does my doctor thump my back?
That tapping action has a name: “percussion.” And just like a drum, your lungs have air that carries sound. That sound can let your doctor know if there is liquid inside your lungs, which can happen if you are sick. Fluid in your lungs can signify emphysema, heart failure, or cancer.
Why is the abdomen important?
Your abdomen is important to your health. It's where your liver, stomach, intestines and other vital organs live. So your doctor will prod a bit, testing to make sure everything is healthy. This is to make sure nothing is too tender, too big, or too firm.
Why do doctors press your stomach?
It's where your liver, stomach, intestines and other vital organs live. So your doctor will prod a bit, testing to make sure everything is healthy. This is to make sure nothing is too tender, too big, or too firm.
What is the purpose of a preventive visit?
The purpose of a preventive visit is to review your overall health, identify risks and find out how to stay healthy. Your plan covers 100% of a preventive visit when you see a doctor in your plan network.*. The purpose of an office visit is to discuss or get treated for a specific health concern or condition.
Why is it important to have a preventive checkup?
Proper preventive care is important to help you live a longer, healthier life. A preventive checkup can help prevent disease before it starts and detect problems early, before they cause serious illness.
What is preventive care?
A preventive care visit with your doctor focuses on your overall health and how to stay healthy. But a preventive visit may turn into an office visit that costs you money. Learn why.
How to check if your provider is in your network?
You may pay more or for all of your health care costs if your provider is out of your network or does not have a contract with Blue Cross (this is called a non-participating provider). You can verify if your provider is in your network by calling customer service at the number on the back of your member ID card.
Do you have to pay for a doctor's visit?
You may have to pay for the visit as part of your deductible, copay and/or coinsurance. If you schedule a preventive care visit and ask your doctor about a specific health concern or condition, your clinic may code and bill the appointment as an office visit.