What happens during a routine dental checkup beyond just a basic cleaning? At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts in downtown San Diego, we believe in transparency about your dental care. Many patients wonder about the comprehensive examination process that helps maintain optimal oral health. Let’s explore what you can expect during your visits.
Removing Plaque and Tartar
During your checkup, our skilled hygienists perform a thorough professional cleaning that goes far beyond what you can achieve at home. Using specialized instruments, we carefully remove hardened plaque (tartar) from above and below your gum line. This process not only keeps your teeth clean but also helps prevent gum disease and decay. We pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas where bacteria tend to accumulate, ensuring your mouth is as clean as possible.
Assessing Your Bite Alignment
Your bite is crucial to your overall oral health, which is why we carefully evaluate how your upper and lower teeth come together. During this examination, we check for signs of teeth grinding (bruxism), uneven wear patterns, and potential alignment issues that could lead to problems in the future. We also assess how your jaw moves when you open and close your mouth, ensuring smooth function and identifying any areas of concern before they become problematic.
Evaluating Your Temporomandibular Joint
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts as a hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. During your checkup, we perform a thorough evaluation of this important joint by checking for signs of TMJ disorder, including clicking, popping, or discomfort. We also assess the surrounding muscles for tenderness or tension that might indicate stress-related problems. Early detection of TMJ issues can prevent chronic pain and complications down the line.
Checking Any Existing Restorations
If you have fillings, crowns, bridges, or other dental work, we carefully examine these restorations during each checkup. We look for signs of wear, potential leakage, or other issues that might compromise their effectiveness. Our detailed inspection ensures your previous dental work continues to protect your oral health effectively. This proactive approach helps us identify and address any concerns before they require major intervention.
Oral Cancer Screening
One of the most crucial aspects of your routine checkup is an oral cancer screening. This painless examination involves carefully checking your mouth, throat, tongue, and surrounding areas for any suspicious changes or abnormalities. Regular screenings are vital for early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. Our downtown San Diego dentist makes it convenient for busy professionals to maintain these essential health screenings.
Digital Imaging and Documentation
Using state-of-the-art technology, we document your oral health status through digital X-rays and intraoral photos when necessary. This allows us to:
- Track changes in your oral health over time.
- Identify potential issues before they become visible to the naked eye.
- Create detailed records for more effective treatment planning.
- Share visual information to help you better understand your oral health.
The Importance of Regular Visits
These comprehensive checkups are essential for maintaining not just your oral health, but your overall well-being. By detecting and addressing potential problems early, we help you avoid more extensive and costly treatments in the future. Our downtown San Diego location offers convenient scheduling options to accommodate busy lifestyles.
Experience Excellence in Dental Care
At Fifth Avenue Dental Arts, our experienced team combines clinical expertise with a gentle, patient-centered approach. From routine checkups to complex procedures, we’re committed to providing exceptional dental care to our downtown San Diego community. Visit our state-of-the-art practice, where we combine expertise with comfort to deliver outstanding results. Your smile deserves the best care possible, and we’re here to provide it.
