Dental Cleaning Specialist

How often do I need dental cleanings?

If you have a busy schedule, it can be tempting to skip your dental cleanings. But dental cleanings allow your dentist to examine your mouth and diagnose dental issues early on. Early diagnosis helps you avoid painful, costly dental problems in the future.

Regular dental cleanings are essential for preserving the health of your teeth and gums. No matter how busy you are, it's important to make time for a dental cleaning every six months.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

During a dental cleaning, your dentist carefully examines your teeth and gums. You may also receive X-rays, or other imaging tests as part of your exam. These tests can help check your teeth for signs of decay.

Next, your dental hygienist thoroughly cleans your teeth. Your hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and most surface stains. Then your hygienist polishes your teeth and applies fluoride or sealants. If you have any dental appliances, your hygienist may also examine these devices to make sure they're in good shape.

After your cleaning, your dentist examines your bite and checks your ability to move your jaw, chew, and swallow. Depending on various risk factors, your dentist may also perform an oral cancer examination and screening.

How can regular dental cleanings improve my oral health?

Regular dental screenings allow your dentist to review your medical history and make sure your information is up to date. You may be at risk for serious oral health problems without realizing it. During routine exams at Hometown Family Dental Centers, your dentist reviews all risk factors to make sure you get the care you need.

Most dental problems can be fixed if they're diagnosed early. But delaying treatment allows dental issues to get much worse. If you put off your dental exams, you may require more invasive procedures, including dental surgery. Some dental problems, such as oral infections, can spread to other parts of the body. These infections may be life-threatening if left untreated.

By keeping up with your exams and cleanings, it helps ensure that your teeth stay healthy. Regular exams can also help prevent minor tooth troubles from turning into big problems.

Ready to schedule your next exam? Call Hometown Family Dental Centers today or book an appointment online.