ankeny dental checkup

Who Needs A Dental Checkup?

Who benefits from a dental checkup and when do they need one? The fact is, everyone from the youngest to the oldest member of your family benefits from a routine dental exam! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist explains what makes them so essential for our oral health.

Exams for Kids and Adults

We offer a routine checkup visit for kids and adults alike, so every member of your family can obtain the care needed to enjoy optimal oral health. For all ages, this involves taking a close look at the teeth, gums, roots, and more with digital imaging. Intraoral cameras allow us to look closely at the surfaces of your teeth and gums, and digital x-rays allow us to peer beneath the gums, all using less radiation and providing these images instantly chairside for convenience. They allow an accurate diagnosis, and help us explain the state of your smile and what care you may need and why.

In the same visit, we can conduct a dental cleaning for all ages too. With a cleaning, we use an ultrasonic scaling device to gently and thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth. This is done with vibrations the device emits. We then use a manual pick to take on portions of tartar that cling to the teeth. The final step is to polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and to help limit buildup until we can see you again in six months.

Talking about Oral Hygiene

The key to really preventing tooth decay and gum disease is to care for your smile from home in between these visits. Which is why we will also take time to talk to kids and adults about proper oral hygiene habits. Everyone needs to start and end their day by brushing their teeth for two minutes, a process that removes all plaque and tartar from the teeth and protects overall oral health. Flossing is essential, as this removes what a toothbrush cannot, and should be done in the evening before you brush that second time. Cutting back on the amount of sugar and starch in your diet can help prevent issues like cavities and gum disease too.

If you have any questions about how we care for your smile, or if you would like to schedule a checkup and cleaning for you and your whole family, then reach out to our team today to get started. We want to help you smile with confidence again, and enjoy optimal oral health throughout the year and in the years to come!

Dental Impressions Provides a Thorough Dental Exam

A dental exam is a key component of keeping your smile strong, which is why we want to see you for one every six months. To schedule an appointment and protect your overall oral health, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.