What Does a Dentist Do?

Your dentist chapel hill is the professional to turn to where your oral health is concerned. Regular preventative care is important and your dental team is here to help. Any problems or traumas in your mouth, jaw and face should be brought to the attention of your dentist. They will oversee your care in coordination with your hygienist and any specialists that may be consulted for any necessary treatment.

Most often, six months is the recommended time between visits to your dentists. Some people may be advised to go more often, every three or four months. When you go in for your routine maintenance appointments, you are likely to experience some of the following:

• Dental x-rays - When you begin a new relationship with a dentist, they will likely want to take some x-rays unless they were able to obtain current ones from your previous office. X-rays are a very important part of your dental visits, your dentist cannot see what is going on under the surface without x-rays. Exposure to radiation is minimal and you are covered with a protective lead apron to help further minimize exposure. Generally, four bitewing x-rays are taken annually and a full set is taken every five to seven years, depending on your dentist’s standard of care. Bitewings are x-rays of just your posterior (back) molar teeth, where decay most often sets in. A full set are x-rays of all of your teeth.
• Oral examinations - Your dentist will make sure there is no decay in your teeth and that your bite is in line; they will discuss any necessary treatment with you to correct any problems detected during these exams.
• Preventative cleanings - Periodically, you should visit your dental office to have your teeth professionally cleaned by a hygienist. These visits will include a cleaning by means of scaling, polishing, flossing and  periodontal charting of the pockets around your teeth. Your pockets will be measured using a periodontal probe and the depth of these pockets will help your hygienist determine how often they need to see you. If your hygienist thinks that you would benefit from a fluoride treatment, they will do that as well. Your hygienist will instruct you in you home care as well, teaching techniques to make self-care easier for you.
• Oral cancer screenings - Your dentist is trained to identify abnormalities in your oral tissues. They may refer you to an Oral Surgeon to further identify anything that they find suspicious. A biopsy of the tissue may be ordered and your dentist will receive a copy of the results from the oral surgeon. Together, you will determine the best option for any treatment that may be necessary.
• Sealant application - Sealants are used to protect the biting surface of the molars from decay. These are most often used on younger children and can last up to 10 years.

Oral health is very important to your overall health. Your relationship with your dental professional team will enable you to maintain optimal, lifelong oral health.

More on General Dentistry : What to Expect at Dental Visit?