A fresh start calls for a fresh smile! As we step into 2025, prioritizing your oral health with a dental checkup is one of the best investments you can make in your overall well-being. Whether you’re a regular at the dentist or it’s been a while, scheduling a dental cleaning and exam will help you maintain a confident, healthy smile all year long.
At Nest Dental in Vancouver, we believe dental care should be empowering, comfortable, and relaxing (yes, really!). Let us show you why a dental exam is more than just a routine — it’s the foundation of long-term oral health.
What Is a Dental Exam?
A dental exam is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health. At Nest Dental, one of our general dentists, Dr. Sonia Sahi or Dr. Ming Jin, carefully examines your teeth, gums, and surrounding structures, ensuring all components of your smile are in tip-top shape.
This process typically includes:
- A visual examination of your teeth and gums to check for cavities, gum disease, enamel wear, faulty restorations, and other concerns.
- Digital x-rays, if necessary, to get a clear picture of areas not visible to the naked eye like in between the teeth and below the gumline.
- An evaluation of your bite and jaw alignment.
- An oral cancer screening to ensure no early signs are missed.
- A discussion of your oral hygiene habits and personalized recommendations to improve your homecare routine.
- An individualized treatment plan if you have any oral health issues or are interested in cosmetic dentistry.
Are Dental Exams Really That Important?
Yes! Think of a dental exam as a wellness check for your smile. Exams are essential for preventive care, allowing your dentist to catch little problems before they become bigger ones. For example:
- Tooth decay detected at an early stage can be treated with a simple filling, rather than waiting until it requires a dental crown or extraction.
- Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be reversed with improved oral hygiene and professional cleanings. Once gingivitis advances into periodontitis, it can be managed but not reversed.
- Regular screenings during your dental exam can help detect oral cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
The old saying holds true: prevention is better than the cure. With regular dental checkups, you can avoid lengthy, costly procedures down the road.
What Happens During a Dental Checkup at Nest Dental?
When you visit our cozy Fraser Street dental studio, you’re in for more than just a standard exam. At Nest Dental, we’ve reimagined the dental experience to make visits feel like a smile spa day.
Here’s what to expect during your appointment:
- Digital X-Rays (If Needed): Our quick, low-radiation x-rays provide a detailed look at your teeth and jaw.
- Dental Cleaning: A hygienist will remove hardened plaque, called tartar or calculus, from your teeth and around the gumline before flossing, brushing, and polishing your teeth.
- Comprehensive Oral Exam: Dr. Sahi or Dr. Jin will carefully examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, checking for decay, gum disease, damaged restorations, and more.
- Personalized Recommendations: After the exam, Dr. Sahi or Dr. Jin will discuss their findings and offer tailored advice to help you improve your oral health and hygiene.
How Often Do I Need a Dental Exam?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends that you visit your general dentist for a dental cleaning and exam every six months. However, the exact frequency may vary depending on your individual needs. Dr. Sahi or Dr. Jin will work with you to create the ideal schedule for your oral health.
Why Choose Nest Dental for Your Dental Checkup?
At Nest Dental, we offer a unique blend of comfort, safety, and exceptional care.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- A Spa-Like Atmosphere: Relax in a private treatment room with Bose headphones, a comfortable blanket, and your favorite TV show, podcast, or music.
- Modern Technology: Enjoy an efficient, accurate exam and see exactly what the dentist is seeing thanks to technology like mess-free digital x-rays, digital scans, and intraoral cameras.
- Comprehensive Care: From cleanings and exams to more complex treatments like Invisalign® and full-mouth reconstruction, we have everything you need in one convenient location.
- A Caring Team: Our compassionate dentists and team members ensure your experience is stress- and judgment-free.
How Do I Find a Dental Exam Near Me?
In the Vancouver area? Nest offers dental exams near you! Come on in and experience dental done differently. Not nearby? Ask friends and family members for recommendations or check with your provincial or territorial dental association.
Start the Year With a Fresh Smile
There’s no better time to prioritize your oral health than at the beginning of a new year. A dental exam and cleaning can leave you with a brighter, healthier smile and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your oral health is under control.
At Nest, we offer general dentistry in Vancouver for the whole family. Schedule your dental checkup today and start 2025 with a confident, radiant smile!
