Dental Exams

If a dental exam is performed incorrectly or not done at all, serious oral health issues can go undetected and worsen over time. By skipping dental exams, you risk allowing minor issues to escalate into painful and costly dental emergencies down the road. Here’s a closer look at what to expect if an exam is done incorrectly: 

• Cavity growth: Cavities grow larger when plaque is left on teeth for a prolonged period. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that break down tooth enamel, creating holes or cavities. During dental cleanings, our care team removes built-up plaque and tartar to prevent cavities from forming or getting bigger. If cleanings are skipped, more plaque accumulates on teeth and cavities are allowed to grow unchecked.

• Gum disease: Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up on teeth at the gum line. The bacteria in plaque infect the gums, causing inflammation and bleeding. As the disease progresses, the gums pull away from the teeth, forming pockets that fill with more plaque and infection. Without regular dental cleanings to remove plaque, gum disease will continue to worsen.

• Oral cancer: Regular dental visits are crucial for early detection of oral cancer. During exams, we check for any suspicious lesions, sores, or other abnormalities in the mouth that could indicate cancer. If oral cancer is caught early, treatment is often successful. However, without routine dental care, oral cancer can go undetected until later stages when treatment becomes more complex and survival rates decrease.
• TMJ: Missing routine dental cleanings can increase the risk of developing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). During dental visits, we check for signs of TMJ and can spot problems early before significant pain or damage occurs. 

It’s important to visit the dentist for a professional exam on a consistent schedule to maintain oral and overall health.