For most people, a general dentistry appointment should be made every six months. Teeth cleaning is an important part of good oral hygiene, as it is a thorough process that removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing are unable to conquer. During the appointment, a detailed exam will also be performed.
Having healthy teeth and gums is important not only for a good smile but also for one’s general health. Regular home care, including brushing and flossing, is a big part of oral hygiene, but a professional cleaning is also important.
Plaque buildup can lead to numerous problems. Tooth decay is one of them. Tooth loss is another, as the plaque can move into the gumline and begin to deteriorate the jawbone, which causes the teeth to become loose and eventually fall out. Regular cleanings remove this extra plaque, preventing more serious issues.
Numerous beverages and foods can result in staining of the teeth. During teeth cleaning, the dental hygienist removes these stains and polishes the teeth, which brightens and whitens the smile. Cleanings also help to prevent bad breath.
Having poor oral health affects overall health and can result in diabetes and heart disease. Regular teeth cleaning is one part of maintaining good dental health.
A general dentistry appointment consists of more than just teeth cleaning. The visit is also an overall exam of the teeth and gums.
Before beginning any exam or treatment, the patient will be asked about any current medical condition or medications they are taking, as these can affect oral health. The patient will also be asked about any issues with the teeth, gums, or jaws.
A detailed exam will check out the state of the teeth, gums, facial muscles, jaw, and supporting structures. The gum pockets are measured to see if there is any early gum disease. Although not taken at every routine visit, the dentist may recommend X-rays of the mouth to detect abnormalities that cannot be seen otherwise.
The visit may also consist of an oral cancer screening, although this does not occur at every visit. During the screening, the dentist examines the soft tissues in the mouth and the area around the jaw to see if there are any early signs of oral cancer.
During the cleaning, tartar and plaque will be removed from the teeth and around the gum line. The teeth will then be polished. If necessary, proper flossing and brushing techniques may be recommended to the patient.
Regular flossing and brushing are not usually enough to maintain good dental hygiene, so scheduling general dentistry appointments on a regular basis is important. Along with teeth cleaning, the dentist will examine the mouth to catch problems, such as dental decay and gum disease, early on and prevent more serious issues.
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