Exams and X-rays:
Why you need these services even when your mouth looks and feels “fine”
An aching tooth. Puffy cheeks. Bleeding gums. A bad taste. These and other symptoms often only arise after dental decay or gum disease has progressed to the point of causing damage that now requires treatment. The hard truth is chronic problems with the mouth are known to be asymptomatic or silent for a long time, especially in the earlier stages of decay (erosion) and gum/periodontal disease (gingivitis). This is where regular dental exams and x-rays at the offices of Happy Smiles in Clearwater and Tampa, Florida, come into play.
What is done during an exam?
The exam is all about early detection. Dr. Mamata Ponnaganti has 25-plus years of experience in dentistry as well as the technologies to spot problems lurking underneath the surface, threats that you didn’t know you had because your “teeth and gums look and feel fine.” Dr. Ponnaganti starts by visually examining your teeth, gums, jaw joints, and more. She will also have you open and close your mouth and make other movements to assess the function of the supportive structures, like the TM joints. She may feel the inside of your mouth and on the sides of your neck for suspicious lumps and bumps to identify potential pre-cancers and cancers early when there is a better chance of successfully treating them. For what can’t be seen with the eyes or felt by touch, she will take a closer look with x-rays.
Do I need X-rays at every visit?
For most patients, these exams are scheduled once every six months or two times per year. We generally take x-rays once every year. We may order new x-rays if we identify potential issues and need to examine them more closely.
Are all X-rays the same?
No. “Bitewings” involve rendering images of the teeth, gums, and jawline when you bite down or your mouth is closed. They may be used to detect decay and changes in the jawbone caused by gum disease and other conditions (bone loss). A full set or full-mouth x-rays are generally taken during the new patient visit and once every five years for adults. True to their name, they provide big-picture insights into the health of your mouth and serve as a baseline that allows us to monitor for any changes to your oral health during succeeding visits or checkups.
Are X-rays safe?
Of course! You can trust that all technologies and treatments at our office are safe. We use advanced techniques and take special precautions to minimize the radiation exposure associated with the x-ray process.
Do I get a cleaning during my exam visit?
Yes. This is the standard routine that we want to get you into, and again, we make every effort to consolidate services. So, that means fewer trips to our office. Here at Happy Smiles, we make the most of your precious time. This combination of comprehensive exams, oral screenings, x-rays, and professional cleanings is called the “dental checkup.” Now, if it’s been over six months since your last checkup, you are overdue! We would like to hear from you whether you have noticed any concerning changes or not. To schedule your visit at either our Clearwater or Tampa, FL office, call us at (727) 205-2700 and (813) 743-4520, respectively, today.
