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 to have to go in for some dental cleaning to get rid of it.
Typically, for a dental exam, you would go to your dentist. If you’ve never had 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 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 organizational 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 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 ensure 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?
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 the 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 a proper and prescribed manner may need to visit the dentist more often, which increases the cost of their dental care.
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. Contact us to get a healthy recommendations for your teeth.
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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.
frequently asked question
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.
Everyone has their own level of tooth sensitivity. However, with modern tools, a dental exam typically does not hurt.
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.
How Often Should You Get Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleaning is an excellent oral hygiene practice to prevent plaque build-up and keep your teeth and gum healthy. You can follow simple aftercare tips for a dental cleaning to make your cleaning last longer. A regular visit to the dentist can be done for follow-up. Getting dental cleaning twice a year is more than enough if you want to take good care of your teeth.
When are Dental Cleanings required?
It is always suggested to maintain proper oral hygiene and brush your teeth twice a day in order to prevent 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 a dental check-up and professional cleaning done by the dentist or dental hygienist. More often than not, after a 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.
Bellevue Dentist, WA
Dr. Uparika Sharma is a top rated Bellevue Dentist. She has been practicing for over 5 years at Bellevue Azalea Dentistry clinic. She holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from the University of Washington. Dr. Uparika Sharma is a member of the American Dental Association.