Dental exams and cleanings
Preventing Problems Before They Start
The health of your teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire body, and while routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.
By routinely seeing your dentist for exams and cleanings, you can:
- Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath
- Have a smile that will last a lifetime
- Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures
- Keep your teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks
- Shorten the time spent in your dentist’s office
The Exam
During your exam, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. Whether these X-rays are traditional or digital, the images provided will help your dentist discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.
Professional Cleanings
Our experienced hygienists will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities, and examine the quality of existing fillings. Then, they will perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss occurs.
Your hygienist will then carefully clean using a variety of tools to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. After, they will floss your teeth using a polishing compound, and apply fluoride.
Cleanings usually aren’t painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your hygienist know as we understand your apprehension.
Several sedation options will be proposed to you to ensure your comfort. If tooth decay or gum disease is found, your hygienist may recommend changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums appear to be healthy, your dentist will probably recommend that you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.
