The Importance of Dental Exams and Cleanings
Preventive dental care is the foundation of long-term oral health. Routine dental exams and cleanings lower the risk of tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other problems. They also allow us to identify dental issues in their earliest stages when they are the easiest to treat, avoiding the need for more invasive and costly treatments down the road.
Keeping up with routine dental exams and cleanings is one of the best ways to keep your smile healthy and sound. Your cleanings will also lift most surface tooth stains, leaving you with a brighter, healthier smile!
How Often Should You Schedule Dental Exams and Cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling regular dental visits at intervals determined by your dentist. In general, patients with good oral health require dental exams and cleanings every six months to maintain their oral health. However, those with periodontal disease may require appointments every three to four months to prevent the condition from progressing.
At Celes Dental Studio, we believe in a proactive approach to dental care. We are proponents of prevention and early treatment rather than addressing dental problems after they develop.
What Can You Expect During a New Patient Exam?
After welcoming you and asking you about your medical and dental history, we will take digital x-rays to get a closer look at underlying dental issues not visible during a visual examination. Dr. Bakshi will perform a comprehensive oral exam to establish a baseline for future oral health. She will evaluate every one of your teeth and dental restoration to ensure they are free of damage. She will also assess your gum health to check for periodontal disease and conduct an oral cancer screening to rule out any potential concerns.
After your new patient exam, Dr. Bakshi will create a custom treatment plan outlining any necessary preventive or restorative treatments to keep your smile healthy and bright.
What Happens During Routine Dental Exams and Cleanings?
Your regular dental exams are similar to new patient exams. They involve a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums and every aspect of your oral health to detect any problems that may have developed since your last visit.
After your dental exam, our dental hygienist will perform a dental cleaning, which involves gently removing plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line. That helps lower the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. At Celes Dental Studio, we use an ultrasonic scaler, when needed, to gently blast away plaque and tartar, minimizing patient discomfort.
After your dental cleaning, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to fortify your tooth enamel and prevent cavities. We are also pleased to offer personalized advice about caring for your teeth at home to keep your smile healthy and sound.
At Home Oral Hygiene Care
Regular brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and a quality, soft-bristled toothbrush is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy smile. It is also important to floss every day to remove plaque and food particles trapped in those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, which can harbor harmful oral bacteria.
We recommend maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugary foods and drinks to keep dental disease at bay. Good oral hygiene practices coupled with routine dental visits will ensure you enjoy a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.