Cleaning your teeth at home daily is important to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. However, visiting your dentist regularly is also key to maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can spot potential problems, like gum disease, that you may not be aware of.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that patients see their dentist at least once a year for a routine examination and professional cleaning. However, patients with a history of periodontal disease may be advised to visit their dentist more frequently to prevent the recurrence of infection or disease. The number of annual dental visits will vary depending on each patient’s individual needs and dental health. Therefore, you must consult your dentist to determine how often you should schedule an appointment.
The Importance of Routine Cleanings and Exams
A dental cleaning is important for your oral health. It can prevent various problems and help you keep your smile bright and happy. Regular cleaning appointments and at-home hygiene habits can help prevent cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Consistent dental exams can help reveal more significant problems, such as oral cancers, tumors, and other diseases that may not be visible to the naked eye. 3D imaging can help get a clear understanding of any possible oral health issues.
When you have a regular dentist, they will get to know your smile and oral health history. This way, they can more easily spot any changes or potential problems.
What Happens During a Dental Exam
Although you may not like going to the dentist for yearly cleaning, it is important for your oral health. Routine cleanings help remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, leading to gum disease and other problems. Here are some of what you can expect during your dental exam:
A Review of Your Medical History
Tell your dentist if you have any new concerns or conditions or are taking new medications. This information is important because it can affect the necessary treatments or procedures and how often you’ll need to see the dentist for cleanings.
Physical Examination and X-Rays
Diagnostic x-rays are performed to detect any potential issues such as tooth decay, tumors, bone loss, and root positions. Once the x-rays have been reviewed, the physical examination will take place. This examination involves a visual exam to look for any possible tooth decay and examine the face, tongue, throat, lips, and gums for any signs of oral cancer or gum disease.
Teeth Polishing and Flossing
Tartar is a hardened plaque that can only be removed with special dental instruments. Plaque is a sticky film produced by bacteria. Once teeth are free of all debris, the teeth are polished. This polish has a gritty, rough texture that shines and helps smooth the teeth’ surface. After teeth have been polished, expert flossing is done. All teeth are flossed accurately, and this removes any leftover debris.
Conclusion
It’s important to see the dentist regularly for a few reasons. The dentist can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease and also help identify any problems with your teeth or gums that you may not be aware of. This can include things like cavities or gum disease. They can also help you with information on how to care for your teeth and mouth at home.
Comfort Dental of Framingham provides professional dental care with the highest standards. Our dentist offers you and your family personalized and quality dental care. We offer a variety of dental treatments, including Invisalign and dental implants, to assist every patient. If you need dental exams in Framingham, MA, we’ve got you covered! Begin improving your oral health with a consultation with us!
