What Happens During a Comprehensive Dental Exam?
A comprehensive dental exam at McAllen Dental is far more than a quick look at your teeth. Dr. Joey Cazares conducts a systematic evaluation of your entire oral health system. This includes a visual examination of each tooth for signs of decay, checking existing fillings and restorations, and assessing your gums for inflammation or pockets that indicate gum disease. He also examines your bite, jaw joints (TMJ), and the soft tissues of your mouth, cheeks, tongue, and palate for any signs of abnormality, including oral cancer. To see beneath the surface, we use digital X-rays, which expose you to minimal radiation, to detect cavities between teeth, check bone health, and monitor tooth development. This holistic approach ensures no aspect of your oral health is overlooked. For a complete overview of all services, see our guide to general dentistry in McAllen.
Why Are Professional Dental Cleanings Necessary?
Even with excellent brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus) on your teeth, particularly near the gumline. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and harbors bacteria that cause gum disease. Our skilled dental hygienists use specialized instruments to gently and thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar deposits from your teeth through a process called scaling. Following scaling, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and create a smooth surface that is more resistant to plaque accumulation. This professional cleaning is essential for preventing gingivitis (early gum disease) and maintaining the health of the supporting structures of your teeth.
How Does Technology Improve Your Exam Experience?
We leverage modern dental technology to make exams more comfortable, informative, and precise. Digital X-rays provide immediate, high-resolution images with up to 90% less radiation than traditional film X-rays. Intraoral cameras are a small, wand-like camera that projects a magnified image of your mouth onto a screen, allowing you to see exactly what Dr. Cazares sees and better understand your treatment needs. This technology empowers you to be an active participant in your dental care decisions. Dentists recognized for their commitment to advanced care, like the Texas Dentist of the Year, often lead in adopting these patient-friendly technologies.
What is the Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health?
Your mouth is a window to your overall health. Research has established strong connections between oral health and systemic conditions. For example, the inflammation associated with severe gum disease (periodontitis) has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and poorly controlled diabetes. During your exam, signs in your mouth may indicate nutritional deficiencies, immune disorders, or other health issues. Regular dental check-ups are therefore a critical component of your overall wellness strategy, not just for maintaining your smile.
How Often Should You Schedule an Exam and Cleaning?
For most patients, we recommend a professional exam and cleaning every six months. This interval is typically effective for maintaining health and catching problems early. However, some individuals may require more frequent visits. Patients with a history of gum disease, those who are prone to cavities, or people with certain medical conditions (like diabetes) may benefit from cleanings every three to four months. Dr. Cazares will create a personalized preventive care schedule based on your unique needs during your initial consultation with our McAllen practice.