Keeping up with regular dental appointments is key to maintaining a healthy smile, yet many people don’t realise just how much a dentist checks during these visits. A routine dental checkup is not just about cleaning your teeth, there is a lot happening behind the scenes to catch potential problems before they become serious. For those prioritising their oral health, dentists in Berwick offer thorough examinations designed to keep teeth and gums in the best possible condition.
What a dentist checks in a routine dental checkup
Examining your teeth for cavities and decay
Tooth decay can develop even if you brush and floss diligently. Plaque and bacteria tend to accumulate in areas that are difficult to reach, which is why your dentist takes the time to inspect each tooth carefully at every dental checkup. They look for weak spots in the enamel, early signs of decay, or areas where plaque has hardened into tartar. Identifying these issues early can help prevent more invasive treatments like fillings or root canals down the line.
In some cases, X-rays are used to get a better view of what is happening beneath the surface. Hidden cavities or early-stage decay that is not yet visible can be spotted through these images, allowing for prompt intervention before discomfort or damage sets in.
Checking the health of your gums
Healthy gums are just as important as strong teeth, yet gum disease often develops without noticeable symptoms in the beginning. During a routine dental checkup, your dentist examines your gums for swelling, bleeding, or signs of recession, all indicators that gum disease may be present.
To assess gum health, they use a small tool to measure the depth of the pockets around your teeth. Shallow pockets suggest healthy gums, while deeper ones could signal gingivitis or periodontitis. If there are concerns, your dentist might recommend a deep cleaning or other treatment to help restore gum health before the problem worsens.
Checking for signs of oral cancer
Oral cancer is not something most people think about when they sit in a dentist’s chair, but screening for it is an important part of a routine visit. Your dentist will check for any unusual lumps, sores, or patches of discolouration inside the mouth, as well as examine the throat and lymph nodes for any abnormalities.
Since early detection dramatically increases the likelihood of successful treatment, this step is very important. Risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, or a history of certain viral infections make these screenings even more essential.
Evaluating bite and jaw alignment
The way your teeth align affects more than just your smile, it can also impact your overall comfort. A misaligned bite can lead to jaw pain, headaches, or teeth grinding, often without you even realising the connection. In a regular dental checkup, your dentist evaluates how your upper and lower teeth meet and checks for signs of wear caused by grinding, a condition known as bruxism.
People who grind their teeth often don’t notice it until significant damage has occurred. If signs of excessive wear are present, your dentist may suggest a custom nightguard to protect your teeth from further damage while you sleep.
Assessing the condition of previous dental work
If you have had previous dental procedures such as fillings, crowns, or implants, your dentist will check their condition during your visit. Over time, restorations can wear down, crack, or become loose. Catching any issues early ensures that small repairs can be made before they lead to more significant problems.
A filling that is starting to break down, for example, may not cause pain right away, but it can create an opening for bacteria to enter and cause further decay. Routine checkups provide an opportunity to ensure everything is intact and functioning properly.
Final thoughts
Skipping a regular dental checkup might not seem like a big deal, but delaying a visit can allow small problems to develop into major ones. Whether it is identifying cavities, treating gum disease, or screening for oral cancer, routine checkups play a critical role in maintaining long-term dental health. If it has been a while since your last visit, scheduling a checkup sooner rather than later is always a smart move.
Spanning Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and beyond, Kids on the Coast is an online guide and printed free magazine for parents. With kids events and activities, attractions & things to do with kids, schools and education, school holiday guides, health & wellbeing for families, parenting and lifestyle news. Located on Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Brisbane, QLD.
