Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining a healthy smile, but they involve much more than just cleaning your teeth. At My Rivertown Dentist in Madison, Dr. Ashley Lee and our team take a comprehensive approach to your oral health, performing a variety of important tasks during each visit that you might not even realize are happening. Here are 10 things you didn’t know were being done at your checkup:
Every checkup includes a thorough screening for oral cancer. Dr. Lee carefully examines your mouth, throat, tongue, and gums for any signs of abnormal tissue or lesions that could indicate the early stages of oral cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment, making this screening an invaluable part of your visit.
Your bite, or the way your teeth come together, plays a crucial role in your overall oral health. Dr. Lee assesses your bite to identify any misalignments that could lead to issues like tooth wear, jaw pain, or even headaches.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. During your checkup, Dr. Lee checks for signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding. By catching gum issues early, we can help prevent more serious problems down the road.
Your tongue can reveal a lot about your oral and overall health. Dr. Lee examines your tongue for any unusual changes in color, texture, or size that could indicate health issues like infections, nutritional deficiencies, or other medical conditions.
Your jaw joint (TMJ) is responsible for the movement of your mouth. Dr. Lee checks your TMJ for signs of dysfunction, such as clicking, popping, or pain, which could lead to more significant issues like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, often goes unnoticed by patients but can cause significant damage to your teeth over time. Dr. Lee looks for telltale signs like worn-down teeth or jaw tenderness, helping you address the issue before it leads to more serious problems.
While you may not see it, tooth decay can start long before you feel pain. Dr. Lee uses specialized tools to detect early signs of cavities, ensuring that any decay is treated promptly to prevent further damage.
Fillings, crowns, and other dental work can wear down or become damaged over time. Dr. Lee checks your existing dental work to ensure it’s still in good shape and functioning as it should, offering repairs or replacements if necessary.
Dr. Lee takes time to review your at-home oral hygiene habits, offering personalized tips and advice to help you maintain a healthy smile between visits. This guidance is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you’re doing everything possible to protect your teeth and gums.
Every patient is unique, and so are their oral health needs. Dr. Lee provides personalized recommendations based on your individual situation, whether it’s advice on diet, additional treatments, or preventive measures to keep your smile in top shape.
Your checkup at My Rivertown Dentist in Madison is about much more than just cleaning your teeth. It’s an opportunity for Dr. Lee to ensure every aspect of your oral health is in excellent condition, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re in expert hands. Ready for your next checkup? Schedule an appointment today and experience the comprehensive care you deserve!
