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Dental Exam & dental cleaning

Prevention Dental Program

A preventive dental program involves cooperation between the patient and the dental team to preserve the health of teeth and their supporting structures. Prevention begins at home with proper oral care and a nutritious diet. It is followed up in the dental office by the efforts of your dentist and dental hygienist to preserve your oral health. Prevention also involves regular dental exams and check-ups, cleanings, and x-rays. Sealants and fluoride are also excellent preventive treatments for teeth. Dental exams and cleanings are essential components of maintaining good oral health. These preventive measures play a crucial role in preventing dental issues, promoting overall well-being, and avoiding more serious health problems. Regular dental visits contribute to a lifetime of healthy smiles and well-being!

Healthy Gums Perfect Smile and mirror

Here are some key reasons why dental cleaning and exams are important:

  1. Plaque and Tartar Removal:

    • Dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup on teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly addressed. Tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.

  2. Prevention of Gum Disease:

    • Regular dental cleanings and exams are vital for preventing gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and has been linked to systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.

  3. Early Detection of Dental Issues:

    • Dental exams involve a thorough examination of the teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This allows dentists to identify potential issues such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other abnormalities at an early stage when they are more manageable and less costly to treat.

  4. Oral Cancer Screening:

    • Dental exams often include an oral cancer screening. Early detection of oral cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Dentists are trained to identify suspicious signs and symptoms during routine examinations.

  5. Preventing Tooth Decay and Cavities:

    • Regular cleanings and exams help prevent tooth decay by removing plaque and addressing early signs of cavities. Dentists can provide advice on proper oral hygiene practices and recommend fluoride treatments for added protection.

  6. Maintaining Overall Health:

    • Oral health is interconnected with overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic conditions, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Regular dental cleanings and exams contribute to a healthy mouth and can have positive effects on overall well-being.

  7. Preserving Tooth Functionality:

    • Early detection and treatment of dental issues help preserve tooth functionality. Addressing problems promptly can often prevent the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures down the line.

  8. Education and Prevention:

    • Dental professionals use cleaning and exam appointments as opportunities to educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices and offer personalized advice for maintaining optimal oral health

male patient looking at his teeth

What will be performed during my dental exam?

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Your first dental visit will include a comprehensive dental exam by your periodontist. At your regular follow-up visits, your periodontist and hygienist will do the following:

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  1. Diagnostic X-rays (radiographs) examination: This is vital for finding cavities (decay), tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also show the position of teeth and roots.

  2. Oral cancer screening: This involves checking the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any oral cancer symptoms.

  3. Gum disease evaluation: This involves checking the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

  4. Tooth decay examination: This involves checking all teeth surfaces for cavities with special dental tools.

  5. Existing restorations examination: This involves checking any existing fillings or crowns for any chips, wear, or need for replacement.

What will be performed during my dental cleaning?

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. Your cleaning appointment will have a dental exam and the following as part of your dental cleaning:

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  • Getting rid of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has stayed on the tooth for a while and is now strongly stuck to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be taken off with special dental tools.

  • Getting rid of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible layer that forms on the teeth. It is a growing group of living bacteria, food bits, and saliva. The bacteria make toxins (poisons) that make the gums swell. This swelling is the beginning of periodontal disease!

  • Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not removed by tooth brushing and scaling.

Dental Cleaning
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