What is a dental exam?
During your dental exam, we use a visual tooth and gum examination, photographs, and x-rays to look for any signs that indicate your gums or teeth aren’t healthy. Your dental exam will also include an oral cancer screening.
Types of dental cleanings
There are two types of dental cleanings: a basic dental cleaning and a deep dental cleaning. If you are new to our practice, you will receive gum examination at your first visit to determine your overall gum health and help us tailor your cleaning to your specific gum health needs.
Regular dental cleanings (guided biofilm therapy)
Guided Biofilm Therapy utilizes the Airflow machine to deliver a targeted stream of air, water, and powder to remove bacterial biofilm from teeth and gums. This innovative treatment method is beneficial in reducing plaque and gingivitis, and may also be effective in treating periodontal disease. Additionally, by removing bacterial biofilm, it can reduce the risk of tooth decay and bad breath. The Airflow machine is an advanced technology that enables the precise removal of biofilm, making Guide Biofilm Therapy a highly effective way to improve oral hygiene and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Deep dental cleanings (scaling and root planing, gum maintenance)
Deep dental cleanings are recommended for patients with gum disease or patients who haven’t been seen for their dental exam in more than a few years. A deep dental cleaning uses a device that vibrates plaque and tartar away with water and antibacterial mouthwash; we then use a curette (a dental scaler with a finer blade) to get rid of any additional build up.
The difference between basic and deep dental cleanings
Basic dental cleanings focus on removing plaque on the teeth and above the gum line, while deep dental cleanings remove tartar and bacteria from below the gum line on the roots of your teeth. We complete a basic dental cleaning over a single appointment, while a deep dental cleaning is completed over two to four appointments. To make your deep dental cleanings comfortable, we often use topical or local anesthetic.
How do dental exams improve your oral health?
It’s easier, less expensive, and less time-consuming to treat dental problems while they’re still minor issues. You also decrease the chances of a dental condition causing severe or long-term damage to your oral and overall health.
For example, a dental cleaning can remove plaque and bacteria before they cause a cavity. A small cavity is less complicated to treat than a large cavity that’s potentially spread to your tooth’s sensitive pulp.Unchecked tooth decay can permanently alter your tooth’s structure and functionality; it can even cause an infection that can affect your other teeth.
Dental cleanings are also essential for gum health, which is closely related to your overall health. Bacteria that cause gum disease can create inflammation throughout your body that can contribute to heart disease, diabetes, and dementia.
What are the benefits of a dental exam and dental cleaning?
Dental exams and dental cleanings have multiple benefits:
An exam can detect other health issues
During your dental exam, we’ll examine your mouth for dental conditions as well as other health concerns, like early symptoms of oral cancer or jaw abnormalities.
We can help you improve your oral hygiene
If you’re consistently brushing and flossing but still experience a lot of tooth decay, we can assist you with revamping your techniques so that you’re removing more plaque from your teeth.
A dental exam and cleaning keep your smile looking its best
A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can contribute to unsightly tooth discoloration and decay that can lead to tooth loss.
Dental treatments for all ages.
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We are here to help you keep smiling from infancy through adulthood.
