EXAM AND CLEANING

Routine dental exams and cleanings are essential for maintaining positive oral health. Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and gums and have never had a cavity, it’s important to schedule regular dentist appointments to keep your teeth squeaky clean and ensure that they remain in tip-top shape! If it’s time to schedule your next routine teeth cleaning and dental exam, please get in touch with our front office so we can find a convenient time for you to come in!

What happens during a professional teeth cleaning?

Teeth cleanings that are performed by a dental professional can help remove built-up plaque from areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, which helps reduce your risk for dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Once the plaque is scraped away, the teeth are brushed with a gritty toothpaste that provides a deeper clean than regular toothpaste and lifts some of the stains that have accumulated over the last six months. Then, your hygienist will expertly floss your teeth to ensure that the spaces between the teeth are clean and plaque-free.

Why is it important to have regular comprehensive dental exams?

Routine dental exams are one of the best ways to spot potential dental issues and treat mild dental issues before they progress. Early diagnosis for problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer results in more cost-effective treatment options being available to the patient that tend to require fewer or shorter appointments as well. For example, if gingivitis is caught before it turns into periodontal disease, it can sometimes be reversed with a deep dental cleaning         and enhanced at-home oral care routine.

What is a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride treatments are a quick, inexpensive preventive treatment that can help strengthen tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. After the teeth have been professionally cleaned, a safe amount of highly-concentrated fluoride is applied to the surface of the teeth. The patient should not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after the treatment to allow the teeth to completely absorb the fluoride. Fluoride treatments are typically recommended for children to help them strengthen their teeth, but they can be utilized by patients of all ages