Tooth Decay: Exams And Tests
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Exams and Tests
When you visit your dentist for tooth decay, he or she will:
- Ask you questions about your symptoms and past medical and dental problems and care (medical and dental history).
- Look at your teeth using a pointed tool and a small mirror. Your dentist will look for discolored areas and obvious holes in your teeth.
- Take X-rays if he or she thinks you have tooth decay that cannot be seen.
Early Detection
Having a dental checkup once or twice a year can help your dentist find tooth decay and other problems before they cause severe problems. If you often have dental problems, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
| Last updated: | July 30, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Jeannette Curtis |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Arden Christen, DDS, MSD, MA, FACD - Dentistry |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
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