$\"A$ Whether you need a routine dental cleaning or more extensive reconstructive dentistry work, it all starts with a dental exam. But with so many people going without regular dentistry these days, just making that initial appointment can seem like an overwhelming task. You may be feeling anxious about that first appointment, not knowing what to expect from your exam.

In fact, whether you’re in Shreveport or any other city in the United States, initial dental exams are relatively similar and standard. Depending on the reason that you have decided to schedule a dental exam, several things might happen during your appointment.

Your Consultation

Your exam will usually start with a consultation, where your dentist or dental hygienist will sit down with you and discuss the reason for your visit. He might ask you about your dental history, and any cosmetic or reconstructive dentistry work that you have had done in the past.

This is the perfect time to discuss any questions or concerns you might have with your dentist. If you are experiencing any pain or discoloration in a tooth, let the dentist know. If you are experiencing stress or anxiety about being back in the dentist’s chair, bring it up. At Shreveport Bossier Family Dental Care, we offer a range of sedation dentistry techniques, including nitrous oxide treatment, to help our patients feel more comfortable and relaxed during their procedures.

Your Initial Examination

Because you can only learn so much from asking, your dentist will probably also get a firsthand look at your teeth by putting you in the dentist’s chair for a visual examination. During this time your dentist will be looking for signs of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as any jaw alignment issues or damage to existing structures like crowns or fillings.

Your X-Ray Exam

If you have not visited the dentist in a while, and especially if this is your first time at a new dental office, your dentist will likely recommend a full set of x-rays. This is an important step, as x-rays can help your dentist identify problem areas like cavities, impacted wisdom teeth, and the early signs of decay that would otherwise be hidden from view.

Between your x-rays and a traditional examination, your dentist will be able to thoroughly assess your dental health and make recommendations about any necessary restorative dentistry treatments like fillings or crowns.

Your Cleaning and Recommendations

Unless you have only signed up for a consultation, you will probably have your teeth cleaned during your visit. During this part of the visit, your dentist will scrape and polish away plaque buildup and surface discoloration. Your dentist will also be able to demonstrate any home routines you may have problems with like flossing or effective brushing techniques.

Schedule Your Next Dental Exam Today

It is recommended that everyone visit the dentist every six months, but too many people put these visits off for months or even years. Don’t wait to schedule your own dental appointment – by taking action and taking care of your teeth, you can make sure that they last a very long time. Contact the dental office of Shreveport Bossier Family Dental Care today to learn about the services we offer and schedule a dental exam.