Steps Your Dentist Takes To Find Decay

Decay is something that you might have on your teeth and not even realize it. Decay starts as a small speck, but it does not stay small. When left alone, it spreads over a tooth. It can get inside the tooth's roots, and it can even spread to surrounding teeth. Decay is not a good thing for your teeth, which is why dentists take several steps to look for it during visits. Here are the primary steps a family dentist takes to look for cavities when you go for checkups.

Physical Examination With the Right Tools

The first thing your dentist might do is to look inside your mouth. When they do this, your dentist will have several tools. The first tool is a small handheld mirror. The dentist uses this mirror to see the backsides of your teeth and other areas that might be hard to see. The purpose of this is to see every part of each tooth.

Your dentist will likely have a second tool during this, which is called a scaler. The scaler has a pointed edge on it, and your dentist uses this to test teeth. If they see any area on a tooth with discoloration, the dentist might stick the scaler on this area. If your dentist sees any spots on your teeth that look suspicious, they will also push on them with the scaler. The scaler helps your dentist find small cavities.

X-Rays of Your Teeth

Dentists also spot cavities by taking x-rays of your teeth. X-rays show areas of the mouth that your dentist cannot see with the tools they have. They can show small and large cavities, and they help dentists find issues that lurk behind the teeth.

Other Tests and Tools

Some dentists use other tools to find decay, such as a laser. When a dentist aims a laser at your teeth, they can find cavities by watching the way the teeth reflect the light. Decay causes a different reflection than healthy teeth, so a laser can help your dentist find more problems with your teeth.

With these tools and activities, your dentist can find every piece of decay you have on your teeth. Fixing these areas is vital if you want to save your teeth, and going to a family dentist every six months helps you stop decay. Contact a dentist today to schedule a routine checkup and examination.