Just like you should brush and floss your teeth daily, you need to keep up with dental appointments. Routine exams and dental cleanings can help prevent many issues, such as decay and gum disease, that affect teeth and gums. Unfortunately, many patients take this aspect of oral care for granted. Experts recommend dental cleanings every six months, and if you are visiting an East Charlotte general dentist for the procedure, here’s your guide.
What happens during a dental exam?
Preventive dentistry focuses on preventing dental issues. A routine exam starts with a close look at your teeth and gums, and if you haven’t done diagnostic X-rays in a year, your dentist may recommend that. Imaging tests are suggested to diagnose bone loss, decay, and tumors. Your dentist will also do an oral cancer screening, for which they will check your face, lips, neck, throat, and gums. They will also check if there are any signs of tooth decay or gum disease. A regular dental exam also focuses on existing restorations, such as crowns and fillings.
How is dental cleaning done?
After the oral exam, your dentist will proceed with dental cleaning, for which the hygienist will collaborate. The first step is to remove the tartar and plaque from your teeth using a device called the scaler. Once plaque, which is the biofilm covering your teeth, hardens into tartar, you cannot do much at home. You may hear a lot of scraping sounds, but the process should not be painful. Once tartar is gone, your dentist will then use gritty toothpaste and a powerful electric toothbrush to scrub your teeth. The entire procedure is called prophylaxis. While you may find prophylaxis pastes in the market, don’t attempt to use them on your own. The next step is professional flossing, during which the hygienist will remove residual paste, plaque, and debris.
You will be asked to rinse your mouth at this point. Depending on your needs, your dentist may recommend fluoride treatment to prevent cavities. You will have to wear a mouthpiece with a sticky paste for a minute for the fluoride treatment to work.
What are the benefits of dental exams and cleanings?
First and foremost, dental exams and cleanings allow you to prevent decay and gum disease. If you already have signs of decay or other issues that need attention, your dentist can start treatment immediately. Dental cleaning also addresses the concern of bad breath. If you are worried about the costs, just remember that dental exams and cleanings cost a lot less than usual treatments. Even a standard filing can be more expensive. Also, you can use the visit as an opportunity to learn more about oral hygiene habits and how to care for your teeth and gums better. Much like adults, children should also go for dental cleanings once every six months.
Will dental cleaning hurt?
No, a standard dental cleaning session shouldn’t hurt. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a year or more, you may find the procedure more discomforting. As you go for regular dental cleanings, you will find yourself at ease.
What is root planing & scaling?
If your dentist finds pockets between your teeth and gums, they may recommend procedures called scaling and root planing. These procedures go beyond routine dental cleaning to clean below the gums. Patients with extreme tartar on their teeth may need two appointments for the treatment. While the procedures don’t hurt, you may experience some sensitivity and discomfort for a couple of days.
Check online with your dental clinic in East Charlotte to schedule your next appointment for routine exams and cleaning.