When was the last time you visited our office for a checkup and cleaning visit? A simple exam and cleaning is helpful for patients of all ages, from kids to adults. In today’s blog, your Charles City, IA, dentist talks about the importance of these visits, and why you should schedule one soon!
The Dental Checkup
We suggest an exam for kids and adults alike every six months. During these visits, we will take time to closely examine your teeth and gums with digital x-rays and intraoral cameras, so we can make a diagnosis with precision and accuracy. The exam enables us to identify problems in the early stages, so we can offer treatment before the stability of your smile is threatened and before you suffer from major discomfort. For example, we will look for cavities and gingivitis in smiles of all ages. For adults, we also watch for TMJ disorder, bruxism (teeth grinding), oral cancer, and periodontal disease. For kids, we want to make sure baby teeth erupt and fall out on time, so permanent teeth can arrive without complication. We can also instill good oral health habits and visits help lower the chances of dental anxiety in adulthood.
Removing Plaque and Tartar
In the same visit, for patients of all ages we will conduct a dental cleaning. The cleaning procedure involves our team using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to gently and thoroughly break up and remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. These bacterial layers can otherwise lead to teeth stains, bad breath, cavities, and even gingivitis and gum disease. The cleaning takes only a few minutes, and we then polish the teeth to brighten the smile and make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to the smile in between visits.
Continuing Care at Home
Our team can also talk about ways to help protect your smile from home in between these visits. For example, you should brush for two minutes when you wake up and then again before bed, using a fluoride toothpaste when you do. We also urge patients of all ages to floss before bed, especially before they brush that second time. This, combined with a diet low in sugar and starch, can help protect the smile from issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease.
If you have any questions about the impact of a checkup and cleaning, or if you would like to schedule one soon, then contact our team.
WE CAN OFFER PREVENTIVE DENTAL CARE
We want you to enjoy your healthiest smile and avoid issues like tooth decay and gum disease! For information on our preventive treatment options, then talk to Central Park Dentistry in Charles City, IA at (641)228-1115!
