The Value of Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings

Having your teeth and gums professionally cleaned twice a year is a must if you want to keep them healthy. Plaque and tartar buildup, if not removed at regular intervals, can lead to cavities and gum disease. At your regular dental checkup, the dentist will inspect your teeth and gums for any symptoms of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues. The need for extensive and expensive dental work down the line may be averted if these problems are caught early.

The Methods Used in Professional Dental Hygiene

X-rays, an examination, scaling, polishing, and fluoride therapy are the four cornerstones of a standard dental cleaning. First, let’s separate out each of these criteria.

Examination and X-Rays

The dentist will most likely take X-rays of your teeth before cleaning them. Cavities and bone loss, for instance, are not always obvious just by glancing at a patient’s teeth but can be detected with this method.

Then, the dentist will conduct an oral examination to check for cavities, gum disease, and any other oral health issues. Existing dental restorations such as fillings and crowns will be carefully examined to make sure they are secure.

Scaling

To remove tartar and plaque from teeth, a procedure known as “scaling” is typically performed. Your dentist will use special equipment to gently scrape tartar and plaque from the chewing surfaces of your teeth and from below your gums. Preventing cavities and gum disease, both of which are brought on by plaque and tartar, requires regular flossing and brushing.

Polishing

After the scaling process is complete, the dentist will polish your teeth to remove any lingering stains and smooth out any rough spots. To get your pearly whites in tip-top shape, the hygienist will use a rubber cup and a gritty material called prophylaxis paste, which is similar to toothpaste in texture. In addition to improving how your teeth look, polishing them can help hinder the accumulation of plaque on your teeth for longer.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride therapy is the icing on the cake when it comes to maintaining good oral health. You can prevent cavities and improve your tooth enamel by having your dentist apply fluoride gel or foam. Fluoride is especially helpful for people who are at a higher risk of acquiring cavities since it can reverse the early signs of tooth decay when applied to the teeth.

Tips for Getting Ready for the Dentist’s Office Visit

Taking these preventative steps will help you have a pleasant and successful dental cleaning appointment:

  • Remember to clean your teeth and floss before you go in for your appointment. You can aid your dentist in removing any plaque that has broken away during the cleaning by doing this.
  • If you’re going to the dentist, it’s a good idea to write down any questions or worries you have about your teeth.
  • Don’t forget to take your dental insurance card with you to your appointment. The billing office can quickly and easily validate your insurance and send you a bill.
  • Arrive early so that you can complete any paperwork and settle in before the cleaning staff arrives.

Tips for After Cleaning and Upkeep

Keeping up with your regular oral hygiene routine after a dental cleaning is essential if you want your teeth and gums to remain in good health. Although your dentist will have particular suggestions for you based on your situation, in general you should:

  • Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth twice daily.
  • Floss daily to remove food and plaque from between your teeth and beneath your gums, where harmful bacteria can thrive and cause gum disease.
  • The best way to prevent tooth decay and strengthen tooth enamel is to use a fluoride-containing mouthwash or rinse, according to research.
  • To prevent tooth erosion and damage, it is recommended to limit one’s consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
  • See the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings as directed.

How Often Should Someone See a Dentist?

Make sure to visit the dentist at the recommended intervals. Dentists generally advise patients to visit them every six months for cleanings and exams. Those who have had a history of gum disease or who are at a higher risk for developing oral health concerns may require more frequent dental cleanings. Your dentist will suggest an interval between cleanings that is appropriate for you.

Contact the Friendly Staff at Kitchener Dentist Fairway Dental

Patients in the Kitchener, Ontario area can rely on our dental professionals for top-notch dental care. Maintaining a gorgeous, healthy smile is easy with the aid of our trained and compassionate dentists, who offer more than just cleanings. Please call our office at 519-893-9494 if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment. Ensuring your oral health is both improved and maintained is our top priority.

DISCLAIMER: The advice offered is intended to be informational only and generic in nature. It is in no way offering a definitive diagnosis or specific treatment recommendations for your particular situation. Any advice offered is no substitute for proper evaluation and care by a qualified dentist.