Does a dental exam include cleaning?

A dental exam is a checkup of your gums and teeth to ensure they are in optimal condition. The exam is done after every six months to protect your oral health and ensure rising oral issues are treated in their early stages. Your dentist or dental hygienist can perform dental exams. A dental hygienist is a professional trained to clean teeth and help patients maintain proper oral hygiene habits. Most patients will get a dental exam and cleaning at the same time, and they need to realize that they are two different dental services. For a dental exam and cleaning near you, visit our dentist in 51248.

What Happens During a Dental Exam

Dental exams are a preventive dental procedure used to help find gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues early when they are easier to treat. A dental exam procedure usually depends on the patient’s situation, but this is what to expect during your process.

• X-rays. X-rays are the best way to detect bone loss, cysts, decay, and tumors. They are also used to show the position of your tooth and roots.
• Oral Cancer Screening. The dentist will look at your throat, face, gums, tongue, lip, neck, and tissues to see if there are any abnormal tissues.
• Dental Restorations Examination. If you have fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations, the dentist will look at them to ensure they are all in shape. Notes will be taken if the restorations are damaged and if any repairs will be required.
• Screening for Gum Disease. The dentist will examine your gums and bones around your teeth to check for signs of periodontitis.
• Dental Decay Examination. The surface of your teeth will be professionally examined using special dental instruments to determine if there is any decay or cavities.

Your dentist may include additional steps if you have a history of oral issues or are in pain.

During a Dental Cleaning

Dental cleaning services in the dental office are necessary since they include the use of high-grade equipment that can clean your teeth better than your floss or toothbrush. A typical dental cleaning procedure includes:

• Removing Plaque. Plaque is a living colony of bacteria. The bacteria continuously grow if not removed by feeding on the food debris left on the surface e of your teeth. As the bacteria eat, it releases toxins that can cause gum inflammation, leading to periodontal disease. Plaque is sticky and invisible, making it impossible to remove it without professional help.
• Removing of Tarter. Tarter can be found above and beneath your gum lines and removed by a professional. Primarily tarter is hardened plaque left on the tooth and attached itself to it.
• Polishing Teeth. This is the final step during a dental cleaning. Your dentist will use special dental equipment to remove plaque and stains that weren’t removed during the brushing and flossing stage.

Additionally, the dentist may apply a fluoride gel or foam on your teeth. Fluoride is a mineral used as a dental preventive treatment to reduce the risk of tooth decay.

Why Dental Cleaning and Exams are Important

Benefits of visiting a dentist near you for dental exams and cleaning include:

Prevents Periodontists, Gum Disease, and Other Oral Issues. The main goal of dental exams and cleaning is preventive dentistry. Additionally, it is much easier and more cost-effective than dental treatments such as root canals or crowns. During your dental exam and cleaning, the dentist will clean your mouth to remove plaque and tartar buildup to lessen the risk of you developing oral conditions such as cavities or gum infections.

• Improves Your Oral Hygiene. Having your existing oral conditions addressed will improve your oral health even further. Dental cleanings will eliminate bacteria buildup and plaque and reduce the risk of cavities and decay. This will keep your teeth and mouth healthy.
• Brightens Your Smile. Tarter deposits are removed during a dental cleaning, making your teeth whiter and brighter. The dentist

  51248 may also do a tooth whitening procedure if you have deep stains.

• Saves Money. Regular dental exams and cleanings aren’t as easier as treating dental issues. There are insurance plans that will cover your dental check-up procedures. Keeping your mouth healthy will reduce the need for costly and complex treatment eliminated.

Do you have any questions about dental check-up routines? Reach us at the Sanborn Dental Associates office today for a consultation appointment. We have trained professionals who can help you answer any questions.