Dental Examinations Douglas, Cork

During your examination, your dentist will carry out a thorough check of your mouth, both inside and out. They will examine your teeth as well as your gums, tongue, cheeks, the roof of your mouth and the floor of your mouth to ensure everything appears healthy.

Any existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns will also be checked to make sure it is still functioning properly. Your dentist may also assess your bite and examine your jaw joint as part of the overall evaluation.

To assess the health of your gums, your dentist may use a small, round-ended instrument known as a periodontal probe. This tool helps measure the condition of the gums and check for any signs of gum disease.

Examining your gums is just as important as checking your teeth, as they provide the support that keeps your teeth firmly in place. As gum disease is very common, a thorough gum examination is an important part of maintaining good oral health.

In some cases, your dentist may recommend taking an X-Ray as part of your dental examination. Dental X-Rays use a very small dose of radiation and help your dentist see areas that cannot be assessed during a visual examination. They can provide a clearer view of the structure of your teeth, the surrounding bone and any existing restorations such as fillings or crowns.

Your dentist may also occasionally request a larger panoramic X-Ray, known as an OPG, which captures an image of the entire mouth. This can help assess the teeth, jaw and surrounding structures. If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, it is important to inform your dentist before any X-Rays are taken.

Your dentist may recommend having your teeth professionally cleaned during your dental examination, either by the dentist or a hygienist. A scale and polish can help remove plaque and tartar that may have built up on your teeth over time.

This cleaning not only leaves your teeth feeling smoother and fresher, but also makes it easier for your dentist to properly assess the health of your teeth and gums during the examination.