Protect Your Oral Health With Preventive Cleanings and Exams
Preventative care is a foundation of dentistry. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist regularly – usually about twice yearly – for full cleanings, examinations, and consultations for potential treatment. Professional dental cleanings help remove built-up plaque that is not removable using conventional brushing and flossing. Often, dentists are also capable of identifying potential problems that patients are not yet able to see or feel. When you maintain regular preventative dental appointments, you can stave off decay and gum disease, as well as identify the beginnings of oral health problems before they become severe.
Did you know...
that Americans are less and less likely to visit the dentist as they age? Data from the Centers for Disease Control reports that only 57 percent of Americans over age 65 visited the dentist in 2010. That compares to about 61 percent adults under age 65 and about 79 percent of children ages 2 to 17. Nonetheless, it is important to visit the dentist for cleanings and exams regardless of how long has passed since your most recent dental appointment.
Risks of Skipping Regular Cleanings
- A higher risk of cavities
- Gum infection and periodontal (gum) disease
- Damage or wear to dental restorations and prosthetics
- Persistent bad breath and poor oral hygiene
- Difficulty chewing and digesting food, which can affect overall nutrition
- Possible negative impacts on heart health and overall well-being
Your First Dental Cleaning Appointment
A typical cleaning visit takes about an hour, with first-time patient visits lasting a little longer. At our office, we take the time to understand your unique needs and goals so we can provide personalized care. Here’s what you can expect:
- Medical and Dental History: We’ll review your health background to identify any conditions that may affect your dental treatment..
- Digital X-rays: X-rays help us see areas not visible during a regular exam. If you’ve had recent X-rays within the past year, please have them forwarded to us.
- Oral Screening and Exam: We perform an oral cancer screening and check your teeth for decay or other concerns.
- Gum Evaluation and Cleaning: Using a probe, we measure the health of your gums and thoroughly clean away plaque, tartar, and buildup.
- Oral Hygiene Guidance: Before you leave, we’ll review proper brushing and flossing habits to support long-term oral health.
Preventing Tooth Decay at Home
To keep your smile strong and healthy, follow these simple daily habits:
- Brush at least twice a day and floss once daily
- Schedule dental cleanings and checkups every six months
- Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Ask your dentist about additional preventive treatments, such as fluoride
Types of Dental Cleanings
While prophylaxis (a routine cleaning every six months) is the standard type of cleaning, some other procedures are often mistaken for regular cleanings. These are actually periodontal treatments designed for specific conditions:
- Full Mouth Debridement – Used when there is heavy tartar buildup that makes a standard cleaning difficult.
- Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning recommended for patients with early gum disease.
- Periodontal Maintenance – A specialized cleaning for patients with a history of gum disease.