If you have not seen our team for a dental checkup in the last six months, then you should consider one soon. A dental exam may seem like a minor appointment, but this is crucial for helping people of all ages enjoy good oral health. In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about why patients of all ages need a dental exam.
Dental Checkups for Grown-Ups
Adults require a dental exam every six months to protect their smiles from serious concerns. When they arrive, we will ask about their oral hygiene routines and then examine the teeth and gums with digital x-rays and intraoral cameras, making a diagnosis with precision and accuracy. We will look for issues like tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease, as well as TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). We also screen for oral cancer. The sooner we discover these issues, the sooner we can start treatment and prevent the risk of tooth loss and other complications.
A Dental Exam for Kids
For kids, we again ask about how they care for their smiles and other risk factors that could lead to issues like tooth decay. We will examine their teeth and carefully explain each step and tool to ensure they feel comfortable and excited about their visit. We will look for issues like tooth decay, and make sure baby teeth erupt and fall out as they should which helps prevent misalignment later in life. Our team will also discuss better oral hygiene routines and the importance of caring for their smiles. These visits help lower the risk of dental anxiety and make kids more likely to continue seeking care on their own as adults.
Cleaning the Teeth
In the same visit, our team will also conduct a dental cleaning for patients of all ages. With a cleaning, we will use an ultrasonic scaling device, which emits gentle vibrations to remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. This helps lower the risk of cavities and periodontal issues, and fights bad breath and even prevents teeth stains. The process only takes a few minutes, and we will use a manual pick for any stubborn portions of tartar. We then polish the teeth to make it harder for plaque and tartar to accumulate before you see us again, and to help brighten your teeth too.
If you have any questions about the importance of a dental checkup, or if you would like to schedule one for yourself and the rest of your family, then contact our team today to learn more.
Dental Impressions Provides Routine Dental Checkups
Our team is ready to help your whole family maintain your best smiles. To schedule an appointment for a routine dental checkup and cleaning, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
