Taking care of your teeth is like a good housecleaning. Once or twice a year, it helps to clean out every nook and cranny.

That’s what your New Brunswick ‘s Dental Association dentist will do for your teeth during your annual check-up. Next to regular brushing and flossing, a regular check-up is the most important thing you can do to keep your smile and oral health in tip-top shape. After all, check-ups aren’t just about cavities – they’re about prevention.

Here’s what your dentist will look for during an exam after updating your medical history:

Outside the mouth

• The health of your jaw joints (TMJ), muscles and surrounding lymph nodes

Inside the mouth

• Signs of gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions
• Oral sores or irritations to gum tissue
• Fit of dentures, crowns or bridges
• Proper bite

and signs of other diseases or medical conditions that may first appear in the mouth.