Dental Examinations and Check-Ups

The Importance of Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential for eliminating harmful bacteria in the mouth.  Bacteria builds and forms plague which can harden and result in long-lasting problems such as gum disease, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.  A good routine of brushing and flossing, in addition to dental exams every six months, will help keep your mouth healthy and prevent infection, decay, and tooth loss.

Reasons to Get a Dental Exam

Dental examinations allow us to evaluate your current dental care methods and provide suggestions for care going forward. Our recommendations can help prevent future complications such as cavities or more serious ailments such as gum disease.  Regular dental exams also give us the opportunity to detect problems early, so we can treat them quickly, easily, and as comfortably as possible.

Dental Exam Frequency

You should visit your dentist’s office at least every six months for a regular cleaning and dental exam. Every patient is different, and some patients might require more frequent visits based on genetics and other habits (including eating, smoking, vaping, drinking coffee, tea, wine, and pop).  We’ll make sure you have a plan tailored to keep your smile radiant and healthy.

Exam Expectations

During your dental cleaning, our hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth, remove any stubborn surface stains, and get rid of tartar and plaque. They will also look for signs of decay or gum disease and perform x-rays as needed to provide a sub-surface look at your overall oral health, including any problems. They may also ask questions about how you are currently caring for your teeth, including brushing frequency, and flossing habits.  When the dentist comes into the cleaning for the exam portion, they will look at all the information the hygienist captured, as well as look at your teeth for themselves to provide a detailed and customized dental care regimen to improve your current oral health and maintain great oral hygiene going forward.

Exam Preparation

The best way to prepare for your dental examination is simple; always practice good dental care.  Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and don’t forget to floss! While we will be thoroughly cleaning your teeth, it’s helpful to try to remove any food or plaque before your visit.  Be prepared to share any relevant new information such as changes to your medical history or insurance information. Do not be embarrassed about your dental care habits or current condition of your teeth!  Our team is not here to judge or scorn you.  We are here to help your smile be the brightest it can be. The final step of your exam is to schedule a follow-up appointment to correct any issues, as well as your next regular exam and cleaning.