Regular Dental Checkup

FAQs

• Why are regular teeth cleanings important?

  Many oral health concerns can only be detected through a thorough examination by a trained dentist. Dental checkups cover oral cancer screenings, digital X-rays to check for hidden issues, and professional cleanings to eliminate plaque, bacteria, and other buildups that daily brushing and flossing can’t effectively remove.

  Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss, so early intervention is vital. Once gum disease has taken its toll on the tooth and supporting bone, it cannot be restored. Gum disease can only be managed once it has taken hold. Your dental hygienist will use a small ruler to gently measure the gum “pocket” around each of your teeth, making note of areas that you can’t clean with a toothbrush or floss. X-rays are used in combination with these measurements, to identify where bone recession has taken place.

• How regularly should you get dental checkups?

  Ideally, dental checkups are performed every six months. On your first visit to the dentist, they will ask for a full health history to gain an understanding of your past and current health. From there, regular dental checkups will be used to determine any change in your oral health and keep your teeth and oral health properly maintained.

  The American Dental Association, and most dentists, recommend six months because the maintenance and cleaning provide a level of deep cleanings and preventative care that is not possible at home.

  As long as your mouth is free of gum disease and heavy buildup, six months is about the average length of time for tartar and stain to accumulate to where another professional cleaning is required. For individuals with a history of periodontitis, these visits may need to be as regular as every 3-4 months.

• Why are brushing and flossing important?

  We all know brushing and flossing make our mouth feel great. But, brushing and flossing do more than freshen breath – they disrupt the complex network of bacteria called biofilm. It’s important to disrupt and remove the sticky film so diseases like cavities and gum disease are less likely to happen.

  And as you know, it is important to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, and floss once. Helping and encouraging your child to make brushing and flossing a part of their habits will help them have a healthy smile throughout their life!

• What are other preventative dental care strategies?

  Besides having your teeth cleaned and stain polished off, our dental cleaning process also provides other preventative services, such as:

  Dental Sealants — Deep grooves and pits in your back teeth are at a higher risk of cavities. Placing a protective sealant over these surfaces makes them easier to clean and lowers the risk of decay or cavities.

  Fluoride Treatment — Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, fights sensitivity, and reverses demineralization which if allowed to occur leads to tooth decay. Dental insurance typically covers fluoride treatments for children.

  Oral Cancer Screenings — This deadly disease is linked to viruses like HPV, sun exposure, and tobacco/alcohol use. Early screenings can be life-saving. We complete a cancer exam as part of every checkup appointment.

  Diagnostic X-rays — Periodic dental X-rays allow us to identify new areas of decay or bone loss around your teeth so that we can treat them in the least invasive manner possible before they worsen.