Teeth Cleaning & Preventative Dentistry

Teeth Cleaning & Prevention

Your initial visit to our office will include a thorough comprehensive oral exam by your dentist in order to make an initial assessment. At this time we will evaluate your gum health, perform an oral cancer screening, check all teeth and previous dental work and take any necessary dental x-rays. A treatment plan will be created to address any dental concerns and a preventative plan will be recommended. Professional dental cleanings and exams are recommended twice a year, however that frequency may increase depending on the patients’ needs. In order to maintain good oral health, it is imperative to have a regular hygiene routine at home. In addition to brushing twice a day, for two minutes, and flossing daily, a person’s diet plays a critical role in dental hygiene. A diet rich in sugar, carbohydrates, and processed foods increases the risk of cavities. Acidic foods and drinks are harmful to your teeth by breaking down dental enamel.

A preventative plan will be recommended, where you will come in for regular check-ups to include:

• Cleaning and polishing: The cleaning will consist of removal of tartar, which has hardened on the teeth over time, along with the sticky plaque that has formed over the teeth. Plaque is a formation of bacteria and build up that will eventually cause inflammation. The instruments and technique we use will safely remove this build up. Followed up by polishing that removes stains and enhances the cleaning.
• Gum evaluation and treatment: Your gums and the bone supporting your teeth will be checked for disease.
• Oral cancer screening: The lips, tongue, throat, neck and gums are examined for any possible signs of oral cancer.
• X-rays: A full set of x-rays (our practice utilizes x-rays which has 1/3 the radiation as standard x-rays.) are performed and are crucial for giving the dentist information such as state of bone loss (if any), development deviations, abscesses, teeth coming in at the wrong position, tumors and other issues hiding within the teeth and gums. Early detection is important in treating many oral health issues.
• Checking: current crowns, bridges, fillings, etc. are done to check for any damage or need for replacement.