Have you ever heard the saying, “Prevention is the best medicine”? This statement could not be more true than it is in dentistry.
Regular dental appointments not only help keep you healthy but also save you time, pain, and money down the road. Just like many things in life, dental problems are easier, faster, and cheaper to fix when they are small rather than when they are large or very advanced.
During your exam, Dr. Thrall will listen to any concerns that you have about your oral health. Next, he will assess the condition of your teeth, gums, and bone. Combining all of this information will help us formulate a plan that fits your needs and desires.
Why Do I Need a Dental Cleaning?
After a meal, a soft, sticky substance begins to cover your teeth. This material is composed of food particles, minerals, saliva, and bacteria. If it is not removed by regular and thorough brushing techniques, it will harden within 48 hours. Over time, this becomes what we call “calculus” or “tartar”. This hardened calculus cannot be removed with a toothbrush or floss, so your dental hygienist uses special instruments to gently remove these deposits.
Another way to think about it…
Calculus is similar to the lime deposits that form around faucets with hard water. If these deposits are cleaned regularly and intentionally, they are cleaned quickly and easily. However, if the lime deposit is allowed to thicken, it can take much more time and effort to remove.
What Are We Examining?
There are many things that your dentist and dental hygienist will evaluate.
- Your teeth will be examined for cavities, cracks, fractures, or abnormal discolorations.
- Your gums will be examined for inflammation, infection, swelling, bleeding, recession, or thinning.
- Your bone will be examined for density, shrinkage, and volume.
- Your lips, cheeks, and tongue will be examined for any abnormal marks, lumps, or textures.
Your dentist and your dental hygienist use the following techniques to collect the necessary information:
- visual examination and palpation
- dental radiographs (x-rays)
- gum measurements
Schedule your exam and cleaning by calling (580) 338-5541