Cleaning and Exam
Benefits Of Regular Dental CheckUps
Routine dental cleanings offer numerous benefits for your oral health and overall well-being. Here are some key advantages: Prevention of cavities and tooth decay, prevention and treatment of gum disease, fresh breath, brightening your smile, oral cancer detection, and overall health benefits. Maintaining oral health through routine dental cleanings are a simple and effective way to maintain oral health, prevent dental problems, and support overall well-being.
What to expect at your cleaning and exam appointment
A routine teeth cleaning and exam at the dentist is a standard procedure aimed at maintaining oral health. Here’s what typically happens during such a visit:
Reception and Check-in:
Arrival and Registration: Upon arriving at the dental office, you’ll check in with the receptionist. They may ask you to fill out or update your medical history and dental records.
Initial Assessment:
Greeting and Overview: The dental hygienist will greet you and provide an overview of what will happen during the appointment.
X-rays (if needed): If it’s been a while since your last X-rays or if there are specific concerns, the hygienist may take X-rays of your teeth to look for cavities, bone loss, or other issues.
Cleaning Process:
Physical Examination: The hygienist will examine your mouth, looking for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other oral health issues.
Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using a small mirror to guide them, the hygienist will use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar around your gum line and between your teeth. You’ll hear scraping, which is normal.
Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning: After scaling, the hygienist will use a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This helps to remove any remaining plaque and surface stains.
Professional Flossing: Your hygienist will floss your teeth to ensure that all areas between your teeth are clean.
Rinsing: You will be asked to rinse your mouth to get rid of any debris left from the cleaning.
Fluoride Treatment (optional): Sometimes, a fluoride treatment is applied to help protect your teeth against cavities. This could be in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish.
Examination by the Dentist:
Detailed Examination: The dentist will come in to perform a more thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They will review your X-rays, if taken, and check for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
Discussion: The dentist will discuss their findings with you, including any treatments you might need, and answer any questions you may have.
Post-Cleaning Instructions and Scheduling:
Oral Hygiene Tips: The hygienist or dentist may offer advice on improving your at-home oral care routine.
Next Appointment: You’ll schedule your next cleaning, usually six months later, unless more immediate follow-up is needed.
Check-Out:
Billing and Insurance: You’ll handle any necessary payments or insurance details at the front desk before leaving.
Departure: With a fresh, clean smile, you’re done until your next visit!
Regular dental cleanings and exams are crucial for preventing oral health problems and maintaining a bright, healthy smile.
This is for educational purposes only and should not be in place of medical advice.