Many people wait until they are in pain to see a dentist. While it is good to correct any issues your mouth may have as soon as possible, it is better to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Poor dental health is also linked to a number of health problems such as diabetes, kidney disease, and heart disease. Routine dental check-ups benefit your body’s overall health.
When you visit one of our dentists, your gums and teeth will be examined. They will check for any signs of infection or recession in your gums, popping in your jaw, and tooth decay. They may take x-rays to see if there are any problems with the jawbone or tooth roots. It is always best to catch issues in their early stages to prevent high dental costs and discomfort.
If a dental infection is not caught soon enough, it may lead to tooth loss that requires a dental implant or bridge to correct. Gum disease is another common problem that can result in tooth loss. It is caused by the buildup of plaque on the tooth. During routine visits, the plaque is removed from your teeth. That process makes it less likely for gum disease to develop.
When our dentist sees tooth decay in its beginning stages, they can remove the decayed portion of the tooth. They then fill the tooth using a tooth-colored filling. You won’t even be able to see that the tooth was damaged.
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What Happens At Your Dental Visit?
There are two parts to a regular dental visit – the check-up and the cleaning.
At the dental check-up, your dentist will look for any potential issues in your mouth. X-rays may be taken to detect cavities between your teeth. The exam will also include a check for plaque and tartar on your teeth. Plaque is a clear, sticky layer of bacteria that can harden and become tartar. You cannot remove tartar with brushing and flossing alone.
Next, the depth between your teeth and your gums will be checked. With healthy gums, the spaces are shallow. When people have gum disease, the spaces may become deeper.
After the exam has concluded, your teeth will be professionally cleaned. The cleaning is designed to remove plaque and other build-ups on your teeth that may put you at risk for disease. It is recommended that you get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months.
What Should I Do Between Dental Visits?
Be sure to take care of your teeth and gums between regular dental visits. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but you can manage it by brushing and flossing regularly.
What’s Right For Me? A Deep Cleaning Or A Regular Cleaning?
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
- Floss daily.
- Use a mouthwash to help control plaque bacteria. This will also help to keep your breath fresh.
Preventive Cleaning
A dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth using a special instrument. Then, your teeth will be cleaned, polished, and flossed. Preventive cleanings are meant for those who do not have excessive plaque or tartar build-up on their teeth. If a patient is found to have more build-up than what can be taken care of by a preventive cleaning, they will be referred for a deep cleaning instead.
Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning is not necessary for every patient. You will be informed by your dental care team if you require one. It is a special type of cleaning that is focused on eliminating the excessive build-up of bacteria that causes gum disease. If you have gingivitis or a more severe case of gum disease, you will need a deep cleaning. The roots of your teeth will also be smoothed to eliminate pockets of bacteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book Your Appointment
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