What To Expect During A Dental Cleaning

You may already know that you should see your dentist biannually for a cleaning and examination. These visits help prevent health problems and maintain your smile. But have you ever wondered what your dentist and team do during your cleaning? Today, your Dental Impressions team in Ankeny, IA, is here to explain the steps of your appointment.

Removing Plaque Buildup

At-home oral hygiene should include brushing and flossing at least twice a day. This helps prevent plaque buildup that can lead to cavities and many more problems. During your cleaning, the hygienist will use gentle tools to remove any buildup that a toothbrush cannot target. This will be followed up with a polish, which helps to rid of plaque and gives your smile that extra clean feeling when you leave the office. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel against cavities. This will be applied to the surface of your teeth, and you will need to avoid eating and drinking for around thirty minutes following the appointment.

X-Rays Provide An In-Depth Look

An essential function of your checkup is to examine your oral cavity as well. During your cleaning, your staff will look at your teeth, tongue, and gums to make sure there are no areas of concern. In addition to this, X-rays may also be taken. These digital images help detect problems earlier so that they can be treated. Cavities, gum disease, or shifts in your alignment can be spotted from these visual aids. The frequency of your X-rays will depend on your treatment needs. Some patients may have these done yearly, while others may only need them done every few years.

Creating A Treatment Plan For Your Needs

Usually, your checkup will take around thirty minutes. In general, it is recommended that you see the dentist every six months for care. However, if you are facing oral health concerns, your dentist may recommend that you come in more frequently for deep cleaning treatments. After your examination, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you. If tooth decay is detected, they may schedule a separate appointment for a filling. This will stop the progression of a cavity and restore the tooth. If they notice that you have symptoms like swollen gums or bleeding, they may recommend periodontal therapy. It is important to treat gingivitis as early as possible so that it does not reach later, irreversible stages.

 If your at-home oral hygiene routine is consistent, you may not need extra treatment. However, you can discuss cosmetic options if there are visual problems you would like to address in your smile.

Come In For Your Checkup Soon

As a general guideline, you should see your dentist at least twice a year for a checkup. To schedule this appointment, you can call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA at 515.965.0230.