Regular Check-Ups

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your dentist for a professional exam and teeth cleaning at least once every six months. Regular dental visits are necessary for the maintenance of healthy gums and teeth. However, the frequency of check-ups may be adjusted based on your individual needs and some people will need to see the dentist more often than others. Preventing a cavity is always preferable to (and less expensive than) restoring the tooth after disease has occurred. Preventive dentistry is very important for us and we try to instill this approach to dental health in all of our patients.

Practicing good oral hygiene, combined with regular check-ups and cleanings, can prevent a lifetime of problems. Early detection is a key to avoiding costly and even painful dental problems. In fact, the major cause of tooth loss in adults is gum disease (periodontitis), which can be prevented with regularly scheduled dental care.

Our preventive treatment program can, in the long term, be the most valuable service we offer our patients. More than just “cleanings,” these visits allow us to monitor your health and catch problems early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. We will also take the time to introduce you to the latest techniques and products to assist you in your home care.

Dental Exams

Regular dental exams are an important part of preventive health care. During a dental exam the dentist will evaluate your risk of developing tooth decay and other oral health problems, identify gum inflammation or bone loss, and check your face, neck and mouth for abnormalities. The exam may also include dental X-rays or other diagnostic procedures. For patients over the age of 5, the dentist will need to see a panoramic X-ray that has been taken in the last 5 years and a set of bitewing X-rays taken within 1 year. These X-rays can either be sent to us by your previous dentist or we can take them in our office.

During the exam, the dentist will also discuss your diet and oral hygiene habits and may demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques. The exam also gives you an opportunity to ask the dentist questions about your oral health. Other topics for discussion during the dental exam may include:

Regular dental exams help protect your oral health and general well being. A dental exam gives your dentist a chance to provide tips on caring for your teeth and to detect any problems early – when they are the most treatable and least expensive. If it has been more than six months since you last saw a dentist, please contact us to set up an appointment and ensure your continued dental health.

Teeth Cleaning

During a professional teeth cleaning (prophylaxis), the dentist removes tartar (mineralized plaque) that may develop over time even with brushing and flossing, especially in areas that are difficult to reach. This process also includes tooth scaling, tooth polishing, and debridement if too much tartar has accumulated. Regularly removing the accumulation of tartar is very important for preventing gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. If it has been more than six months since you last saw a dentist, please contact us to set up an appointment and ensure your continued dental health