Take Control of Your Oral Health with Comprehensive Dental Check-ups
Brushing and flossing your teeth is vital for a healthy smile, but it takes more than at-home oral hygiene to maintain optimal oral health. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), you should see a dentist every six months at minimum. Regular dental exams allow the dentist to detect and treat oral issues that may have escaped your notice at home.
Vital Dental is passionate about keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Dr. Mitul Patel and the team offer comprehensive dental check-ups in Sarasota, Florida, and the surrounding areas to maintain your healthy, beautiful smile. If you aren’t up-to-date with your regular dental exam, visit us today!
What happens during a dental exam?
The objective of oral screenings is to probe your teeth and gums to detect minor issues before they become significant problems. Dental exams are painless and fast, so you have nothing to worry about.
During your exam, the dentist inspects your teeth, gums, and other oral structures to check for signs of:
- Gum disease
- Decay
- Misalignment and overcrowding
- Oral cancer
- Failed dental work
Your dentist utilizes an intraoral camera to see every corner of your mouth. However, sometimes, we need to inspect your oral health beneath the surface of the gum line. As such, your dental exam may involve dental X-rays to detect tooth impaction, bone loss, interproximal cavities, infected teeth, and other issues not detectable in a simple exam. While many patients are nervous about radiation exposure from X-rays, we use digital radiographs, which emit 80-90% less radiation than film-based X-rays.
Is that all about dental exams?
Not at all. After your comprehensive dental check-up, it’s time to clean your teeth professionally. While your toothbrush and dental floss are vital for cleaning your teeth, they can’t reach every corner of your mouth. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from all areas in the mouth, including the hard-to-reach corners.
During cleaning, we use special tools and techniques to clean above the teeth’s surfaces and just below the gum line. This process takes about 30-60 minutes, but it can take far less time, depending on how well you take care of your teeth at home. The dentist concludes your dental cleaning by polishing your teeth with gritty toothpaste for a smooth, glossy finish.
What are the benefits of dental exams?
We understand why you may avoid going to the dentist. Sometimes, it’s because of dental fear, a busy schedule, or simply forgetting to schedule your consultation. Whatever the reason, you shouldn’t skip your regular dental appointments.
Keeping up with your dental check-ups offers the following benefits:
- Prevention: Bi-annual dental appointments are crucial in preventing oral problems. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar, preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
- Early detection: Comprehensive dental exams detect oral issues before they progress and become major headaches. Early detection allows for conservative and less costly treatments.
- Better overall health: Have you heard about the mouth-body connection? Your oral health is interlinked with your overall well-being, so keeping your smile healthy is the first step in maintaining your overall wellness.
Are you ready for a dental exam?
Just like your car requires routine maintenance to keep it running smoothly, dental check-ups ensure your smile stays healthy. When was the last time you saw a dentist? If it’s been more than six months, call (941) 371-2022 to schedule an appointment with Vital Dental.
Dr. Mitul Patel
Dr. Mitul Patel, D.M.D., is a dedicated dentist at Vital Dental Sarasota, known for his caring and gentle approach. With over 500 hours of continuing education, Dr. Patel's commitment to staying abreast of the latest dental advancements ensures his patients receive top-notch care. His meticulous attention to detail, aided by high magnification loupes, guarantees precision in every procedure. Dr. Patel's compassionate nature and expert knowledge make him a trusted figure in the dental community, providing an exceptional and reassuring experience for all his patients.
Follow On