When you go to the dentist, you probably think of it as being a routine visit. After all, you’ve been going every six months for your entire life. But did you know that dentists blowing air into your mouth is actually a very scientific process? An article from the American Dental Association explains that dentists use an instrument called an anerobic probe to blow air into the patient’s mouth during the examination. The probe has a hose connected to a canister filled with compressed air. When dentists press on areas of your gums and jaw that feel tender or look red, they may ask you to open wide so they can blow air into your mouth with this device. This article explores why dentists perform this procedure and what it means for your oral health.
What is the purpose of blowing air into the mouth?
Aerobic probe airflow is a necessary part of the dental exam process because it provides the dentist with important information about your oral health. In addition, the airflow helps reduce the patient’s level of discomfort during the procedure. Dentists use the probe to blow air into a patient’s mouth in order to test for areas of inflammation and infection. Redness, swelling, or tenderness in your gums is often the first sign of an infection in the mouth.
If the probe detects that an area is inflamed or infected, the dentist will likely suggest a course of antibiotics or other treatment. In addition to detecting areas of infection, blowing air into the patient’s mouth can also help the dentist rule out problems like impacted wisdom teeth, cysts, and other conditions.
Why do dentists blow air into your mouth?
The probe allows the dentist to check for swollen or inflamed tissue in your mouth without touching it. When the dentist prods your gums, it can cause unnecessary discomfort and bleeding. It can also dislodge bacteria and irritants that have built up in your gums and cause them to become even more swollen.
Blowing air into your mouth is more effective than using a swab to test for inflammation because it is gentler on your gums. A swab can irritate and further inflame the gums, causing more pain. A probe that blows air into the patient’s mouth allows the dentist to test for areas of inflammation or infection without touching the gums. This can both lower the risk of infection for the patient and cause less discomfort for the patient during the exam.
Benefits of blowing air during your dental exam
Air flow through the probe can help detect inflammation or infection in your gums before it becomes severe enough to cause pain. When the probe blows air into your mouth, it can dislodge bacteria and other irritants that build up in your gums. It can also help your gums return to a normal state of health by reducing the amount of swelling and redness. With a probe that blows air into the patient’s mouth, the dentist can test for gum health in the following areas:
- Ligamentum
- Gingival tissue
- Periodontal membrane
- Alveolar bone
Hidden meaning behind the process of blowing air
The actual process of blowing air into your mouth is a very deliberate one. The probe releases a very specific amount of compressed air into your mouth. A gentle amount of air is enough to dislodge bacteria and debris from your gums. However, too much air can break the delicate membranes in your mouth and cause a level of inflammation or damage that could actually be worse than not doing anything at all. That’s why dentists have to be very careful when blowing air into your mouth. They must release the perfect amount of air that’s enough to help your gums return to normal while not causing too much damage or irritation.
Conclusion
The probe that blows air into the patient’s mouth is an important part of the dental exam process. It provides the medical professional with critical information about your oral health and can also help lower the patient’s level of discomfort during the procedure. The actual process of blowing air into your mouth is a very deliberate one. The probe releases a very specific amount of compressed air into your mouth. A gentle amount of air is enough to dislodge bacteria and debris from your gums.
