Why go in for a checkup when nothing seems wrong?
Many people ask this question, but routine checkups and cleanings can improve your oral health tremendously. Our dentists can help you keep clean, strong teeth with a routine visit every six months, or as often as your dental insurance allows.
Keep your gums and teeth healthy
Many dental problems have no early symptoms. You might notice a toothache, but decay between teeth, early gum disease and worn fillings often go unnoticed until they are harder to treat. At your checkup, your dentist looks for hidden problems and answers your questions about your oral health.
Oral health for overall health
Good oral hygiene does more than prevent cavities and gum disease. It also supports your overall health and well-being. At every visit we show you how to brush and floss properly and point out the places where plaque tends to build up, so you can keep your teeth clean between appointments.
Why keep your teeth professionally cleaned?
Regular cleanings help give you the clean, bright smile you want, but they also help you keep your teeth longer. Your hygienist removes tartar that brushing cannot, which makes you less likely to get cavities and the toothaches that come with them, and helps prevent gum disease.
How your teeth are cleaned
Teeth cleaning is easy and usually quick. Your dental hygienist removes tartar with a hand scaler or an ultrasonic instrument, then polishes your teeth so plaque has a harder time sticking to them. For a gentler, more thorough clean, ask about Guided Biofilm Therapy.
What to expect during your checkup
- A careful look at your teeth, gums and bite
- Gentle checks with a dental probe for soft spots and tenderness
- Measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums
- Digital X-rays on some visits, especially if we notice a potential problem
- Advice on caring for your teeth and time to answer your questions
Your first visit and treatment plan
If you are new to our clinic, we start by listening to your concerns and what you would like for your smile. We then examine your teeth and gums, take digital images if needed, and put together a complete treatment plan. We explain your options and costs, and treatment begins only when you are comfortable with the plan.
