Dental Exams & Cleanings
One of the best ways to maintain good oral health is to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Dental exams and cleanings have effectively prevented and detected oral health problems early.
These preventive measures can help save you time, money, and pain in the long run. That's why we recommend that everyone visits their dentist at least twice a year.
At Silvertooth Family Dental, we provide comprehensive dental exams and cleanings for patients of all ages. We recommend that our patients visit us every six months for routine checkups.
Dental Exam
A dental exam is a thorough examination of your teeth and gums by a dentist. We will perform a comprehensive dental exam at your initial dental visit. At regular checkup exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:
Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs):
One of the best ways to spot dental problems at their earliest stage is through diagnostic x-rays. Dentists can detect cavities that have not yet reached the tooth's surface and are invisible to the naked eye. We will also check for signs of periodontal disease, tumors, cysts, and other abnormalities. Diagnostic x-rays are an important part of your dental exam.
Oral cancer screening:
This screening examines your mouth for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and pharynx (throat). The most common type of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma.
Gum disease evaluation:
We will check your gums for redness, swelling, bleeding, or any other signs of periodontal disease. We will also measure the depth of the spaces between your teeth and gums (called "pockets"). Gum disease evaluation allows us to determine the best course of treatment, if necessary.
Examination of tooth decay:
Another dental exam component is checking all of your teeth for tooth decay. This is done with a small mirror and probe. The dentist will look for any pits, cracks, or holes in your teeth that may indicate the presence of tooth decay.
Examination of existing restorations:
The dentist will check previous dental work, such as fillings, crowns, or bridges. This ensures they are still in good condition and do not need to be replaced. We will also check existing restorations for new problems like tooth decay or leakage. Silvertooth Family Dental is committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care. We believe that preventive measures, like dental exams and cleanings, are essential in maintaining good oral health.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Registered Dental Hygienists usually perform professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis). Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
- Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
- Teeth polishing: Remove stains and plaque not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
- Fluoride treatment: This can help to prevent cavities, especially in children.
- Sealants: A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (premolars and molars). This protects the teeth from tooth decay.
Benefits of Dental Exams & Cleanings
There are many benefits to having regular dental exams and cleanings. Some of these benefits include:
The prevention of cavities and gum disease
One of the most problematic dental conditions is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your teeth. It occurs when plaque and tartar build up on your teeth and gums. If not removed, this can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.
Dental exams and cleanings help prevent cavities and gum disease by removing the plaque and tartar that can lead to these conditions.
The detection of oral cancer
Another benefit of dental exams is the early detection of oral cancer. Oral cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. However, it is also one of the most treatable cancer forms if detected early. During a dental exam, your dentist will look for any signs or symptoms of oral cancer. We will refer you to a specialist for further testing and treatment if anything is found.
The removal of plaque and tartar
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If it is not removed, it can harden into tartar. A professional cleaning can only remove Tartar. If plaque and tartar are not removed, they can lead to cavities and gum disease. Regular dental exams and cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, so they do not cause these problems.
The prevention of bad breath
Bad breath (halitosis) can be caused by plaque, tartar, and gum disease. It can also be caused by certain foods, tobacco use, and other medical conditions. Dental exams and cleanings can help remove the plaque and tartar that cause bad breath.
The prevention of bad breath
Last but not least, regular dental exams and cleanings can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile!
When to Schedule a Dental Exam & Cleaning
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year for a dental exam and cleaning. You may need to visit more often if you have certain risk factors for dental problems. These risk factors include
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Drinking alcohol excessively
- Using illegal drugs
- Having diabetes
- Being pregnant
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having a family history of dental problems
- Having certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or eating disorders
If you have any of these risk factors, you should talk to your dentist about how often you should schedule a dental exam and cleaning.
When to Schedule a Dental Exam & Cleaning
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year for a dental exam and cleaning. You may need to visit more often if you have certain risk factors for dental problems. These risk factors include
- Smoking or using tobacco products
- Drinking alcohol excessively
- Using illegal drugs
- Having diabetes
- Being pregnant
- Having a weakened immune system
- Having a family history of dental problems
- Having certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or eating disorders
If you have any of these risk factors, you should talk to your dentist about how often you should schedule a dental exam and cleaning.
Get In Touch
We encourage you to contact us with any questions or comments you may have. Please call our office or use the quick contact form below.