Dental Exam
Why Do I Need A Dental Exam And All Those X-Rays
Many diseases and problems are not noticeable until they become severe with pain or other symptoms arising.
- Cavities – small cavities are hard to see with the eye and may show up on x-rays first. If fixed early, it will prevent potential loss of teeth.
- Gum Disease – If plaque and calculus is left on the teeth and gums for prolonged periods it will cause inflammation causing bone loss and the gums to recede, this leads to sensitivity and teeth mobility and the eventual loss of teeth.
- Cost – Preventative measures are more cost effective than doing complex procedures. The cost for root canals, dentures, crowns, bridges, implants, gum grafts are significant. The cost of an implant to replace a missing tooth can be enough to cover regular cleanings for ten years.
- Disease – The dentist looks for much more than tooth decay. There are many diseases like HPV or cancers the dentist is looking for around the lips, cheek, throat, palate, gums, tongue and the bones on the x-ray.
- Education – The dentist and hygienist can give you suggestions to improve your oral health. You may be grinding or brushing too aggressively without knowing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 5 frequently asked questions tailored for the Victoria Family Dental pediatric dentistry page, with each answer strictly limited to two lines:
X-rays detect small cavities between teeth, hidden bone loss, and infections that are completely invisible to the naked eye before pain starts.
The dentist screens for oral health issues like gum disease, tooth grinding habits, and serious conditions like HPV or oral cancers.
Preventive care catches problems early, avoiding highly expensive future treatments like root canals, dental implants, or gum grafts.
Left untreated, plaque and calculus cause gum inflammation and receding gums, which ultimately destroys the supporting bone and loosens teeth.
Yes, brushing too aggressively can wear down your enamel and damage your gums without you even realizing it.