Dental Exams and Check-Ups
How Important is Oral Hygiene?
Oral hygiene is necessary for eliminating bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria builds to form plaque that can harden and lead to long-term ailments such as gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease) and periodontal disease (a more severe form of gum disease that leads to bone loss) if it is not removed. A good dental care routine and regular check-ups will keep your mouth healthy and prevent inflammation, infection, decay, and tooth loss.
Why Get a Dental Exam?
Dental exams give us the opportunity to evaluate your current methods of dental care and provide suggestions for future care in order to protect you from complications such as cavities and gum disease. We like to detect problems early so they can be fixed quickly and easily.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Exam?
Dental exams should take place every six months. However, consult with our team to decide how often to have an exam, as we may suggest that you visit more frequently based on factors such as smoking, frequency of cavities, and genetic susceptibility to tooth and root decay as well as gum disease.
What Can I Expect From a Dental Hygiene Visit?
At a routine hygiene visit, our hygienies will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing any surface stains, plaque, and deposits of tartar or calculus. We will also check for signs of decay or gum disease, and perform an oral cancer screening. A series of x-rays may be performed to provide a more detailed summary of your oral health and to help identify any problems not seen with the naked eye. We will ask you questions about your current methods of dental care, including how often you brush and floss, and ask you if you are having any issues that are causing you concern. We use all of this information to help the doctor create a treatment plan that best fits you and fulfills your expectations of us.
How Can You Prepare For a Dental Exam?
The best way to prepare for a dental exam is to practice good dental care. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day is recommended. Be sure to clean your teeth before you arrive at your appointment. Our hygienies will be cleaning your teeth, but it is helpful to remove food and plaque beforehand so they can focus on the more difficult-to-clean areas. You also want to be prepared to share pertinent information such as your medical history, insurance coverage, and current dental care methods with us. Don’t be embarrassed to be honest about your oral health habits – we are here to work with you to improve your habits and ensure dental health, not judge you. Lastly, be prepared to schedule a follow-up appointment or future check-up at the end of your dental exam, ensuring that you are taking care of your #1 investment–yourself.