Recall Exams – What Are They and Why Are They Needed?

Recall exams are essential in ensuring the oral health of a patient. The intervals of the recalls differs from patient to patient. To be more specific, it depends on their needs. So, there are patients that are asked to go back for a dental checkup after 6 months while some are asked to go back after 9 or 12 months.

An oral examination is performed during recall exams. Also, in case the radiographs of the patient has been upgraded, then the upgraded ones would be read in order to determine whether a problem has arisen or not after their last examination. With the recall exams being performed, early detection of the symptoms of oral problems becomes possible, which means that the problem would be addressed before it even starts, progresses or gets worse.

Now, in case dental restorations have been performed on you, then recall exams would help in identifying whether cracks and fractures have emerged in it. The existence of cavities would also be determined, resulting to the removal of it before it even affects your other teeth. In other words, having your teeth examined every 6, 9 or 12 months can actually help you prevent possible oral health problems.

Recall exams are not only essential for people who are already suffering from pain and discomfort in their teeth and gums. As a matter of fact, it is essential for everyone as it helps identify the changes that have occurred in the mouth of a patients. It also helps in the diagnosis of minor issues and the treatment of it at the same time.

During the recall exams, you can expect that the dentist would check the existence of tooth decay in the teeth. The condition of the gums would also be evaluates. Not only that, the mouth would also be examined for deficiencies and diseases. So, the teeth and gums are not the only ones examined but the throat and tongue as well.

The dentist would also check for loose teeth, damaged fillings and broken teeth. In case you are wearing something in your teeth, it would also be checked to ensure that it is still living up to its function. Taking x-rays may also be necessary in some cases. Of course, recall exams would not be complete without cleaning your mouth by removing the plaque and tartar, flossing your teeth, polishing it and recommending techniques that you can use to take better care of your oral health.

Of course, just because you have been exerting great effort to go to your dentist’s clinic in time for your recall exams doesn’t mean that you would fully rely on it when it comes to your oral health. It is also essential for you to do your own homework like brushing your teeth and flossing them regularly. With the exam together with good oral hygiene and by following the instructions of your dentist, rest assured that your teeth, mouth and gums would be at its best condition.

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