Your mouth says a lot about the rest of your body. In fact, studies indicate that a dentist can get a glimpse about what is going on with your health with a comprehensive dental exam.

During a comprehensive dental exam, your dentist in Anaheim Hills will check the health of your teeth and gums and do an oral cancer screening. An oral cancer screening helps detect any mouth cancers that you may not see yourself.

What is a Comprehensive Dental Examination?

According to Dr. Jack Ringer, past president and an Accredited Fellow with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, a comprehensive dental exam is a detailed visual dental checkup that uses intra oral cameras and panoramic x-rays to detect dental caries.

Your mouth, neck, and face will be checked for any abnormalities, as anything that looks suspicious will be examined. If you have a mole or growth in your mouth, a sample will be taken for a biopsy. When oral cancer is detected early, there is a much higher rate of survival.

During your Comprehensive Dental Exam Dr. Ringer will:

• Evaluate your oral hygiene
• Check your jaw and bite for abnormalities
• Check your risk for root decay, bone, or gum disease and tooth decay
• Check your restoration needs
• Demonstrate brushing and flossing techniques
• Check your fluoride levels
• Take pictures and x-rays
• Discuss your needs
• Perform an oral cancer screening

During your dental checkup, your overall health will be discussed along with any medications, including vitamins and natural remedies that you may be taking. Any health problems, such as diabetes, will be discussed as diabetics are in the high-risk category for gum disease. If Dr. Ringer detects dry mouth and it has nothing to do with your teeth and gums it could be your medication. Talk to your doctor if this is the case.

Lifestyle Factors Considered During your Comprehensive Dental Exam

During your checkup, Dr. Ringer will discuss your oral hygiene habits and your diet. If you brush and floss, but still aren’t getting rid of the plaque, Dr. Ringer, and his team will show you proper brushing and flossing techniques.

If your diet is less than optimal for healthy teeth and gums, healthy choices for your oral health will also be discussed.

If you use tobacco products, your dentist in Anaheim will go over the risks that smoking and chewing have on your teeth and gums.

Why Do I Need a Comprehensive Dental Exam?

Regular dental checkups protect your overall health. If you follow Dr. Ringers Blog, you will know that there is a connection between your mouth and your body. Even subtle changes in your mouth could mean something isn’t right. When you have a yearly comprehensive dental exam, you are protecting yourself against oral cancers, but also heart disease as well.

Research indicates that an overabundance of plaque and tartar causes a buildup in your blood vessels. This restricts blood flow and oxygen to your heart. There is a link between gum disease and heart disease. Annual checkups help keep you and your body healthy.

Regular checkups are important for overall health. Call and schedule a comprehensive dental exam in Anaheim Hills today.