At one point or another, almost everyone has experienced the uncomfortable experience of a dental cavity. If left untreated and unchecked, cavities only tend to increase in size, causing more discomfort than at the start. Dr. Shant Bedikian of Sincere Smiles Dental is a skilled Howell dentist who employs several methods to detect if his patients’ teeth are harboring any hidden cavities that require immediate attention.
But what exactly happens during this process? In today's blog post, Dr. Bedikian talks about why it is essential to diagnose cavities early before they worsen, how our keen Howell dentist notices them, and what steps you can take to protect your teeth from cavity collateral damage!
During a dental exam, one of the first steps is a comprehensive visual inspection of your mouth, teeth, and gums. This detail-oriented examination aims to detect any abnormalities or irregularities. Our Howell dentist diligently checks for signs of cavities, such as tooth discoloration, the presence of holes, and other indications of enamel damage.
When conducting a thorough oral exam, our Howell dentist may utilize a dental probe or explorer. Once a visual inspection is completed, he carefully examines the teeth crevices for any indications of cavities. Equipped with a dental mirror on one end, Dr. Bedikian gently applies pressure with the explorer into these areas. If the explorer sinks into the crevice, it indicates that the dental enamel has been breached and that a cavity is present.
Imagine a pen-like instrument equipped with a miniature camera that is delicately maneuvered throughout your mouth. The invention of the intraoral camera has revolutionized the process of locating and identifying cavities, making it significantly more manageable. This camera captures detailed images in real-time, transmitting them to a computer screen for immediate viewing. Through these close-up angles, our Howell dentist gains an understanding of the inside of the mouth, allowing for accurate diagnosis and efficient cavity treatment.
Regardless of size, dental x-rays play a crucial role in detecting decay at various stages on, in, or between teeth—our Howell dentist relies on x-rays to identify any signs of decay or damage that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Without x-rays, cavities may go unnoticed and lead to more serious dental issues in the future.
During your visit, Dr. Bedikian will capture multiple images from different angles to ensure comprehensive treatment. Subsequently, our Howell dentist will thoroughly analyze the x-ray results, meticulously identifying any discolorations that often indicate potential cavities requiring diagnosis and treatment.
All in all, it is crucial to keep an eye on your smile and attend to cavities as soon as they are detected so that further damage does not occur or cause any other significant issues. While our Howell dentist can expertly detect tooth decay, it is better to be proactive about your oral health and regular preventative visits. Our team of dental experts use their knowledge, skills, and experience to restore any decayed areas using the best techniques available. Book an appointment with our Howell dentist as soon as possible for cavity prevention and treatment by calling 517-200-3691.
We are proud to call Howell home, and happily provide the best quality dental work that Howell has to offer. At Sincere Smiles Dental, we are happy to help with any dental questions you might have.
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