Good Teeth: They Don't Have to Be in Your Genes

Those who have suspected dental conditions definitely need dental exams, but even those with seemingly healthy teeth need regular dental exams. A dental examination gives both you and the dentist the chance to know more about your oral health. Here are some of the things you can learn during a dental exam:

Your Risk of Dental Problems

At the end of the dental exam, both you and the dentist will have a reasonable overview of your risks of dental problems. The dentist will also explain to you the preventive measures you need to take to avoid the said issues. Here are some of the common risk factors for dental disease:

• Teeth grinding
• Stress
• Advanced age
• Poor nutrition
• Smoking
• Medications

Having a single risk factor doesn't automatically mean that you will develop a dental issue; the more risk factors you exhibit the more you are in danger of developing dental issues.

Emerging Dental Problems

The dental exam will also reveal emerging dental issues that you may not have realized yet. Typical early signs of dental issues include bad breathe, excessive saliva, and teeth sensitivity, among others. Just like with other forms of health issues, the earlier you catch a dental condition the easier it will be easier to deal with. Therefore, the dental exam gives you the chance to take care of these issues before they become full blown dental problems.

Your Overall Health

A dental exam can also help you understand health issues affecting other parts of your body.  Here are some of the things your teeth can reveal about your overall health:

• Stress or sleep difficulties may be characterized by worn out or chipped teeth (as a result of teeth grinding and clenching)
• Unhealthy gums may mean that you have a high risk (or are already dealing with) gum disease
• An unusual number of teeth loss may mean you are dealing with osteoporosis (weak bones)

How to Take Care of Your Teeth

Lastly, no dentist worth their salt will end a dental exam without giving you useful tips on how to take care of your teeth. You know that you should brush and floss your teeth daily, but brushing and flossing aren't the only ways of preserving your dental health. The dentist will tell you how to go the extra mile in preserving your dental health.

As you can see, there is a lot you can understand from a dental examination. Therefore, don't miss your next dental appointment even if your teeth look healthy to you. For more information, contact companies like Crest Hill Family Dental.