What Happens in a Dental Exam?

How long has it been since you’ve gone to the dentist? Come on now, be honest with yourself. Could you be delaying making an appointment because you don’t know what to expect and it makes you nervous? Today we would like to help put you at ease by explaining what happens in a dental exam.

At your first appointment with us, we would like to know your health history so we can have a better idea of how to care for you and your teeth. At your follow up appointments, we may ask you if there have been any changes to your medications or health conditions so that we keep providing you with the most suitable care.

Checkups will likely constitute most of the dental visits you’ll have. These can help prevent major problems from developing in your mouth. At these appointments a hygienist will likely complete a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from below your gum line. Our dentist can then examine your mouth for signs of disease or decay maintain your health and to prevent any problems from becoming worse.

X-rays may be recommended by our dentist to help diagnose problems that could otherwise be unseen like decay between the teeth, damage to jawbones, impacted teeth etc. depending on your symptoms, age or risk of disease. Very little radiation may be emitted from modern x-ray machines–you could probably get more radiation from spending a weekend in the sun. However, to be safe, you should wear a dental apron. Also, if you know you are pregnant, you should let us know.

It is recommended that you get a checkup every six months to help prevent major issues from occurring. If you live in College Station, Texas, or the surrounding areas, and would like an appointment with Dr. Parker Long, please call Long Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at 979-846-0082 today.