Dental Cleaning & Exams
Nowadays, there’s so much importance on an individual’s oral health. Teeth cleaning is something everyone should have a firm grasp over. However, sometimes brushing your teeth may not be enough. This is where dental cleanings and dental exams come to work.
Fear of the dentist can eventually become an obstacle. Regardless of how much you clean your teeth, there is always a chance of plaque developing. Plaque isn’t easy to remove, and you’re going have to go in for some dental cleaning to get rid of it.
Dental Exams and Check-ups
Typically, for a dental exam, you would go to your dentist. If you’ve never had a dental check-ups before, the thought can be quite scary. However, don’t worry! This article will cover everything you need to know about dental exams and dental cleaning.
What Is A Dental Exam?
A dental exam will involve a dentist inspecting the condition of your teeth and your gums. The dentist will take a look at your oral condition and also examine potential future troubles.
What Happens During A Dental Exam?
There are several things a hygienist or dentist will do during a dental exam. First, they will assess the overall oral health of the individual. This process involves checking for signs of tooth decay, and any signs of damage in the gums. In certain severe cases, your dentist may also take an X-ray.
If the dentists find any stains or plaque/tartar deposits on the individuals’ teeth, they will remove them with a tool called a scaler. You can also expect your dentist to рrеѕсrіbе аn antibacterial mouthwash tо rеduсе bасtеrіа іn уоur mouth. The entire process combines into one comprehensive exam.
What Is The Dental Examination Chart?
A dental examination chart is an organization tool that allows professionals to record any information regarding a patient’s teeth. Dental charting mainly involves listing the results of the examination.
A specific part of the examination chart is the periodontal charting. This portion involves six different measurements that are taken around each tooth. The dentist will note down a lot of useful information about your teeth and gums. You can use these tips and recordings to ensures that you maintain your oral hygiene.
How is Dental Cleaning done?
First, the hygienist will conduct a physical exam of your teeth and gums using a small mirror and assess the presence of plaque bacteria or tartar in your mouth. In case of any signs of gingivitis or periodontitis or any other major concern, hygienist will ask dentist to do detailed examination before proceeding further with dental cleaning.
In the case of presence of tartar or plaque deposits, the dentist will use a scaler to remove them from the gumline and in-between the teeth. Post removal of plaque and tartar, they will use a high-powered electric brush to help clean any residue.
After that, you’ll have to rinse with fluid to get rid of anything left behind in your mouth. The hygienist may also give you a fluoride treatment wherein either a gel covered mouthpiece is place over your teeth for 1-2 minutes or a sticky paste is applied onto your teeth.
How Is Dental Cleaning Different Than Scaling, Periodontal Maintenance, Or Deep Cleaning?
Dental cleaning only targets the removal of plaque and tartar from your gum line and in between your teeth. In case there is an infection under the gums, it is called periodontitis which requires the removal of plaque bacteria and tartar under the gums through a procedure called deep cleaning. Periodontal cleaning or deep cleaning targets the gums and bones and involves the cleaning of both the pockets formed between teeth and gums and the surface of tooth’s root.
How Long Is The Dental Exam?
One of the most pertinent questions about dental examinations is how long they take. On average, a dental exam will take you around 45 minutes. However, the dentist reviews can also take longer, depending on the condition of the patient’s teeth. If your oral condition is below average, the exam could take longer. Furthermore, professionals also adjust to the demands of the patients.
How Often Do You Need A Dental Exam?
The average individual can get away with going to a dentist only twice a year. However, people that don’t take care of their teeth in proper and prescribed manner may need to visit the dentist more often, which increases the cost of their dental care.
Why Do We Need To Take Dental X-Rays?
Digital dental x-rays can be a handy tool for dentists. Typically, these allow the dental hygienist to assess the condition of the teeth and jaw from the inside.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Dental X-Rays?
Yes, insurance typically covers the full cost of an exam. X-rays also significantly reduce the chances of a patient needing an expensive procedure later.
Does The Dental Exam Hurt?
Everyone has their own level of tooth sensitivity. However, with modern tools, a dental exam typically does not hurt.
How Often Should You Get Dental Cleanings?
Getting dental cleaning twice a year is more than enough if you want to take good care of your teeth.
When is Dental Cleanings required?
It is always suggested to maintain proper oral hygiene and brushing your teeth twice a day in order to prevents any possible build-up of tartar and plaque around the gum line and in between the teeth. However, in case plaque and tartar starts to build-up, then you need to get the dental check-up and professional cleaning done by the dentist or dental hygienist. More often than not, after dental exam, the dentist will also clean your teeth (not to be confused with deep cleaning). This can make maintaining your oral hygiene much easier.
Is It Good To Get Teeth Cleaned At The Dentist?
Yes, it is an essential part of helping maintain overall dental hygiene. A dental cleaning is much more thorough than brushing your teeth at home.
How Does Fluoride Treatment Help With Oral Health?
Fluoride helps prevent future cavities from forming and stops tooth decay.
How Do Dental Sealants Protect Your Teeth?
Dental sealants are a thin protective coating above your enamel. They protect teeth from future cavities by acting as a protective shield.
Conclusion
If you had any concerns about going to the dentist for an examination or cleaning, this article should help you! Remember to go to the dentist at least twice a year and keep your oral health in good shape.
How does treatment work:
- Doctor will examine your teeth and provide consultation
- If necessary, appropriate x-rays will be taken to understand teeth and bone structure near the tooth
- Treatment plan will be discussed along with the insurance coverage.
- Book an appointment or call us at to schedule a consultation with the doctor.
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Dental Cleaning & Exams are completely safe and prevent permanent bone loss in your teeth. Dental Cleaning & Exams help you get a beautiful smile.