The Dental Exam
Every six months, people of all ages need to have their smile examined by the dentist. Digital x-rays, which uses 80% less radiation that traditional systems and obtains detailed digital images, will be used to gather images of the tooth roots, jaw joints, oral structures, and other parts of the smile beneath the gums. A careful examination allows our team to identify developing issues, so we can treat them before they threaten the stability of your smile. We usually look for signs of tooth decay, dental infection or abscess, gingivitis and gum disease, and TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). We also screen for oral cancer once a year too. For kids, these visits have been shown to reduce dental anxiety and help instill better oral health habits.
Cleaning Your Smile
The visit also allows our team to thoroughly clean the teeth, a process that removes plaque buildup with an ultrasonic scaler and manual tool. Plaque buildup could weaken tooth enamel and inflame gum tissue, leading to higher risks of tooth decay and gum disease. Removing this layer helps protect the smile, and also brightens teeth and freshens your breath too. If you have serious buildup and the warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease, then we may use a scaling and root planing to control inflammation.
Continuing the Process at Home
You also need to care for your smile at home in between these visits. Routine brushing and flossing help limit the severity of plaque buildup in between each checkup appointment. You should brush your teeth when you wake up for two minutes, using a fluoride toothpaste. You then need to repair this before bed each night. We also suggest flossing every night, moving the tape up and down each side of every tooth, to remove trapped food particles. Cutting back on sugary foods and drinks can also help, denying harmful bacteria of a meal and limiting the severity of plaque buildup. If you have any questions about the benefits of routine homecare, or if you’re ready to schedule a checkup and cleaning for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today.
Greenhaven Family Dental Provides Preventive Dentistry
Greenhaven Family Dental is ready to help patients of all ages enjoy optimal oral health with a preventive approach to dentistry. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of a simple checkup and cleaning, then you can contact Greenhaven Family Dental in Baxter, MN at 218-454-0523.