A home oral health examination is a great way to protect your teeth and gums in between checkups. Set aside an hour each week to thoroughly inspect the condition of your teeth and gums. You should procure a small mirror and flashlight. These are usually available from any good pharmacist.
The best way to ensure you get a good view of each tooth is by beginning at the bottom left tooth and working your way along the row. You will need to pull the bottom lip back to see the entire tooth. Use the mirror and flashlight to inspect all areas of each tooth. This will take some practice but you will soon get the hang of it.
Identifying Problems with Teeth
Discoloration, tartar, plague, cracks, breaks, or decay in teeth are all signs of poor oral health. You may not feel any pain from these dental health problems so a home oral health inspection is useful. Repeat the examination process for the top teeth to identify all issues.
This is a basic oral health examination and is not intended to replace regular checkups with your dentist. The aim is to catch any problems so you can make an appointment for treatment. At Pine Ridge Dental, we encourage preventative dentistry. When our patients have the education to recognize oral health problems, it saves them from overspending on dental care and prevents unnecessary pain.
Gum Health Examination
When examining your gums, some common symptoms of poor oral health can be identified with a visual inspection. Red, swollen, discolored, or receding gums are a red flag. If you are experiencing pain in your gums or a persistent bad taste in your mouth, it is time to contact Pine Ridge Dental for a checkup.
To learn more about home dental examinations, give Pine Ridge Dental a call today.