Routine Dental Exams: Why They Matter for Plano Families
Juggling school, sports, and everything else that comes with family life in Plano, TX can make it easy to let routine dental check-ups slip through the cracks.
But are these visits *really* that important?
What could *possibly* go wrong if you skip a cleaning or two?
Turns out, quite a lot.
Why Regular Dental Exams are Essential
Think of a dental exam as a wellness check for your mouth.
It’s not just about clean teeth; it’s about preventing problems before they start.
Early Detection of Issues
Here’s what regular exams allow us to catch early at Icon Smiles Dental:
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer screenings
- Broken or cracked teeth
- Problems with fillings or crowns (see our crowns page)
Preventive Care
Beyond detection, we also provide preventive care during your routine visits:
- Professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
- Oral hygiene instructions tailored to your family’s needs
- Sealants, especially for children, to protect against cavities. (Learn more about sealants and fillings)
What Happens During a Routine Dental Exam?
Let’s break it down… Here’s what you and your family can expect during a typical check-up at our office located at 309 W Spring Creek Pkwy, Suite 100A, Plano, TX 75023:
The Examination Process
- Review of Medical History: We’ll ask about any changes in your health or medications.
- Visual Examination: The dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of problems.
- Checking Existing Restorations: Fillings, crowns, and other dental work will be inspected.
- X-Rays: X-rays help us see what’s happening beneath the surface, such as cavities between teeth or bone loss. Learn more about exam and x-rays.
- Oral Cancer Screening: We’ll check for any signs of oral cancer.
Comparing Dental Exams to Other Preventative Care
| Feature | Dental Exam | Medical Check-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Oral health (teeth, gums, mouth) | Overall physical health |
| Key Procedures | Cleaning, exam, X-rays | Physical exam, blood pressure, etc. |
| Frequency | Typically every 6 months | Typically annually |
| Goal | Prevent dental problems, maintain oral hygiene | Prevent illness, monitor overall health |
The Importance for Children
Kids need dental exams, too! Starting young sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Check out our kids dental exam information.
Why Children’s Exams are Unique
- Monitoring tooth development
- Educating children on proper brushing and flossing
- Early intervention for orthodontic issues (maybe they need aligners)
- Preventing “baby bottle tooth decay”
Considering your options? We can help! Call us at 469-312-1118 or book a consultation to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should my family have dental exams?
Most people should have a dental exam every six months.
However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have certain risk factors for gum disease or other oral health problems.
Are dental x-rays safe?
Yes, dental x-rays are safe.
We use digital x-rays, which emit very low levels of radiation.
We also use lead aprons to protect your body from radiation exposure.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
Don’t worry!
We offer a variety of payment options to make dental care affordable for everyone.
We also have new patient specials β see our offers and promotions.
You can also explore our insurance and financing page for more information.
Hopefully, this explains why Icon Smiles Dental believes routine dental exams are vital for Plano families.
Don’t wait until a problem arises; preventative care is the key to a healthy, happy smile for everyone in your household!