Are you overdue for a dental exam? Our routine dental exams in Birmingham are among the most important things you can do for your oral health. And not many people know that your oral health can directly impact your overall health.
Our exams are essential to diagnose and prevent cavities and mouth abnormalities. We also offer a professional clean that will leave your teeth looking and feeling their best.
At Birmingham Dental, at the end of each routine cleaning, one of our esteemed dentists, Dr. Coburn or Dr. Sgalia, will perform a dental examination. The exam helps us provide treatment before any dental issue becomes more serious.
Why is it Important to Have Regular Dental Exams?
The majority of people, when thinking about the dentist, only think about tooth pain, drilling, and complex dental procedures; therefore, they only see a dentist when something is wrong. At Birmingham Dental, we emphasize preventative dentistry over “reactive dentistry,” common in many other dental offices.
We encourage you not to wait until something is wrong to see the dentist. Regular visits to our office will help prevent or eliminate the severity of pending dental issues. Early diagnosis and treatment can eliminate the need for extensive procedures.
We can diagnose gum disease, cavities, tooth decay, and even oral cancer through an exam. Not only will diagnosing these issues in an early stage prevent them from worsening, but it will also save you money spent on restorative procedures.
How Often Should I Get an Exam?
We recommend a dental examination and routine dental cleaning every six months. Of course, that can depend on your unique dental situation. Dr. Coburn or Dr. Sgalia may recommend more frequent examinations if you require extra help due to dental abnormalities.
What to Expect During Your Exam
-Medical History
We will want to obtain a detailed history of your dental health. We might ask you about other medical issues you are experiencing or medicines you might be taking. We want to build a comprehensive picture of your dental status to understand better how to serve you more effectively.
-X-rays
X-rays are often necessary for detecting dental problems that are not evident to the naked eye. We take digital X-rays, which we can view immediately. Some patients express concerns about radiation associated with X-rays. The amount of radiation emitted by digital X-rays is minimal – roughly comparable to the amount you’d receive while consuming bananas because even bananas are technically radioactive. But it would be best if you discussed any concerns you may have with one of our team members.
-Professional Dental Cleaning
At the start of your cleaning, our hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup. Built-up plaque and tartar are the leading cause of periodontal disease. While polishing your teeth, we will thoroughly clean each surface of your teeth while being examined closely. Our cleaning will leave your teeth and mouth with that wonderfully fresh, minty feeling.
-Dental Exams
Once we have cleaned and polished your teeth, Dr. Coburn or Dr. Sgalia will examine your x-rays and each tooth, looking for signs of decay or other problems.
-Education
After your cleaning and examination, we will give pointers on how to take care of your teeth best while at home. At this point, we encourage you to ask us any questions that you may have regarding your oral health or what else you can do to prevent decay.
Contact Us Today to Schedule Your Birmingham Exam
At Birmingham Dental, we believe that dental examinations are essential to maintaining a healthy smile filled with strong teeth. We are here to help you take the best possible care of your teeth.
If you are in Birmingham, Michigan, and are due for a dental cleaning and dental exam, please call our office to schedule your appointment.
You deserve to have healthy teeth and gums, and our exams can help make that a reality.