Tooth pain is often a sign that something beneath the surface needs attention. While it may be tempting to wait until discomfort becomes unbearable, prevention is always better than dealing with a serious dental problem later. Regular dental visits allow issues to be detected early, often before pain even begins.
During a routine appointment, your dentist will first ask if you have experienced any discomfort, sensitivity, or changes since your last visit. It is helpful to take note of anything unusual so nothing is overlooked. A thorough examination of your teeth then follows, allowing your dentist to assess how well you have been cleaning, identify missed areas, and spot cavities or defective fillings that may require treatment.
Dental X-rays are also an important part of preventive care. They remain one of the most effective ways to detect cavities that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Today’s digital X-rays use very small amounts of radiation. In fact, the radiation exposure from a flight between Asia and Europe is roughly equivalent to about 30 dental X-rays, making them a safe and valuable diagnostic tool.
Professional teeth cleaning is another key component of every visit. No matter how carefully you brush, microscopic deposits can still build up around your teeth over time. A dental cleaning removes these deposits, leaving your teeth smooth, clean, and healthier.