Check-Ups & Cleanings
The Gold Standard: Two Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings Every Year
While daily brushing and flossing can keep plaque and tartar from building up on the surfaces of the teeth, teeth cleanings performed by an experienced dental professional can remove the cavity and gingivitis causing buildup from forming in areas that toothbrushes cannot normally reach. It is important to receive two dental exams and teeth cleanings to proactively fight against tooth decay and gum disease.
Dental Exams
Our friendly and experienced dentists look for any signs of tooth decay, enamel wear, and signs of periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, such as gum bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity when conducting dental exams. We use the latest technology to evaluate the health of your teeth and gums by looking beneath the surface of your teeth including the roots of your teeth and the bone levels of your jaw. Our diagnostic imaging technology can identify any abnormalities that may require the attention of a specialist such as an oral surgeon, periodontist, or orthodontist. Regular dental exams can help your dentist identify any problems and their causes such as diet and oral hygiene issues in order to prevent any decay or progression of gum disease.
Dental Cleanings
Regular professional dental cleanings are important to maintaining a happy and healthy smile. Cleanings are a gentle and non-invasive method of removing any buildup on the surfaces and between your teeth and gums. Teeth cleanings can also remove any tartar and plaque that can cause gum sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding associated with gingivitis and prevent the progression of gum disease. As plaque and tartar harden, they must be removed with professional-grade dental instruments and precise technique. The members of our dental hygiene team are experts at efficiently removing any buildup while ensuring your comfort as well.
Other Preventative Treatments
While practicing proper oral hygiene, maintaining a healthy diet, and regularly completing dental exams and cleanings can prevent the progression of tooth decay and gum disease; there are other additional treatments that have been shown to add additional protection and strengthen teeth in order to prevent decay. Two of the most common treatments are the administration of fluoride treatment and the application of dental sealants to tooth surfaces.
Fluoride
When teeth are exposed to acidity, the surface minerals that protect your teeth can be worn away. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, has been shown through numerous medical studies to strengthen the surface of teeth and replenish the protective minerals found naturally in your teeth. Fluoride treatment is a fast and efficient way to maintain strong and healthy tooth enamel. Fluoride treatment is done by applying a fluoride varnish or gel to the surfaces of your teeth. Healthy tooth enamel that is reinforced by fluoride treatment proactively protects against the progression of tooth decay and the formation of cavities.
Sealants
Dental sealants are a thin plastic compound that is applied to the surface of your teeth typically within the pits and grooves of molars and premolars that is hardened with a curing light. Dental sealants act as a proactive preventative measure to protect teeth from decay and the formation of cavities by reinforcing the biting surface of teeth. Sealants add a protective barrier against any harmful cavity causing bacteria.