Do you ever wonder why it’s so important to visit your dentist every six months? The answer may be obvious, but it’s because regular dental check-ups are essential when it comes to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. The less obvious answer, however, is that maintaining proper oral hygiene at home in addition to visiting the dentist twice a year may help extend your life. Gum infections and periodontal disease has been known to cause heart disease, stroke and preterm and/or low birth weight. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings can prevent these and many other health problems.
Some of the most important reasons to have your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis are:
Gum Disease Prevention
Oral Cancer Detection
Keep your Teeth
Cavity Detection
Boost Overall Health
Save Money
Prevent Bad Breath
What to Expect during the Procedure
During your annual checkup and cleaning, our team will evaluate the health of your gums, clean and polish your teeth, and talk to you about caring for your teeth and gums properly at home. The purpose of a professional dental cleaning is to remove plaque and tartar from above and just below the gum line. After the tartar is removed, the crowns of your teeth (the parts that show) may be polished to remove surface stains.
After your teeth are clean, your dentist will examine them for signs of decay, using a metal probe and a small mirror. We check for gum swelling and redness and measure the depth of the gingival pockets. Swelling, redness, and deep pockets are all signs of gum disease. After the examination, we will discuss any dental hygiene problems that were detected, and show you how to brush and floss more effectively, if necessary.
Tell Us Everything
An important part of every visit is updating your medical history. We want to know if you've had any changes in your health or your medicines since your last visit. Mention everything about your health, even if you don't think it relates to your mouth. Many diseases can affect your mouth and teeth. It is also important to talk with your dentist about any problems or changes you've noticed with your teeth, gums, or the inside of your mouth. The earlier we know about pain, sensitivity, or a suspicious lump, the earlier we can diagnose and treat it.