Exams and Cleanings: Keeping Your Smile Healthy
Regular dental exams and cleanings play a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health. At Lawrenceville Dentistry, we understand that while some may find the process unfamiliar, it is actually simple and painless. In this article, we will provide an overview of the exam and cleaning process, helping you understand its importance.
Understanding the Exam and Cleaning Process
During your routine dental cleaning, which should be scheduled at least every six months, our skilled dentist will follow these steps:
- Mouth examination: Our dentist will use a small mirror to examine all angles of your teeth and gums, checking for signs of gingivitis, cavities, or other oral health issues.
- Addressing dental issues: Our dentist will discuss the necessary steps to resolve any detected oral health issues. In some cases, we may address these issues before proceeding with the teeth cleaning, while in other cases, we may complete the cleaning first.
- Preventive care: Our dentist has the ability to detect issues before you even notice them, allowing for prompt intervention and resolution. Early detection can minimize the difficulty of addressing such issues.
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The Cleaning Process: Removing Plaque and Tartar
Once the examination is complete, our dentist will proceed with the cleaning process. We will address plaque and tartar buildup by using a dental tool called a scaler. The scaler gently scrapes the areas in between your teeth and around your gum line. This process may take varying amounts of time, depending on the extent of buildup. If you require significant plaque and tartar removal, our dentist will provide advice on effective home care techniques to minimize future buildup, such as using suitable tools for proper brushing and flossing.
Following the removal of plaque and tartar, our dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth using a gritty toothpaste. The slightly abrasive nature of the toothpaste, combined with the power of an electric toothbrush, helps to eliminate bacteria, food particles, plaque, and remaining tartar. It’s important to note that while abrasive toothpaste can be beneficial during these cleanings, a professional should be the one to use it to avoid wearing down the tooth enamel.
Cleaning Steps: Going the Extra Mile for Optimal Oral Health
After brushing, your teeth will be thoroughly flossed by our dentist. This step offers several significant benefits:
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Comprehensive flossing: During your dental visit, our dentist may perform a more thorough flossing to ensure effective cleaning of all areas that may not be reached during your typical at-home routine.
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Identifying trouble spots: While flossing, our dentist may notice potential problem areas, particularly if your gums bleed during the process. This allows for early intervention and preventive measures.
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Complete cleaning: Flossing is the final step in achieving a fully clean mouth, removing any remaining plaque or toothpaste from the previous steps.
To ensure your oral cavity is as clean as possible, our dentist will then direct you to rinse your mouth. This may involve using water, a fluoride rinse, or a combination of both, effectively eliminating any remaining debris.
Additional Services: Enhancing Your Oral Health
Apart from the basic exam and cleaning steps mentioned above, our dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. This treatment acts as a protective shield, safeguarding your teeth against acid attacks and cavities. Typically, our dentist places a mouthpiece over your teeth and applies a fluoride gel or paste, allowing it to remain for approximately one minute.
In addition, our dentist may suggest taking x-rays of your teeth and mouth once a year or more frequently, depending on your oral health condition. X-rays allow for a comprehensive understanding of your dental health, enabling early detection and prevention of extensive problems.
Contact Us: Schedule Your Appointment Today
For more information about dental exams and cleanings or to schedule your appointment, please contact Lawrenceville Dentistry. The dedicated team at Lawrenceville Dentistry is committed to providing exceptional dental care, ensuring that you have a healthy and confident smile.