How Important
is Oral Hygiene?
Good oral hygiene is important for eliminating bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria builds to form plaque that can harden and lead to long-term problems such as gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, and periodontal disease if it is not removed. Routine 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. They also allow us to detect problems early so they can be fixed quickly and easily.
How Often Should
You Get a Dental Exam?
Dental exams should generally take place every six months. However, we may suggest that you visit us 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 Exam?
At a typical dental exam, our team will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing any surface stains or deposits, called tartar or calculus, that are more difficult to remove than plaque and require the assistance of professional dental instruments. We will also check for signs of decay or gum disease. An X-ray may be performed to provide a more detailed summary of your oral health and to more closely identify any problems. We will ask you questions about your current methods of dental care, such as how often you brush your teeth, and floss, as well as whether you use a toothpaste with fluoride. With this information in mind, we will demonstrate proper dental care and provide suggestions on how to improve your habits to promote optimal oral health.
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. Don’t be embarrassed to be honest about your oral health habits – our team is not here to judge you, but to work with you. Lastly, be prepared to schedule a follow-up appointment or future check-up at the end of your dental exam.
