A dental exam and professional cleaning are essential components of preventive dental care. Together with Zen Smiles Dentistry in San Ramon, CA, let’s explore what each entails so you know just what to expect.
What Is A Dental Exam?
A dental exam, also known as a dental check-up or oral examination, is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health by a dentist or dental hygienist. Your dentist will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any existing medical conditions, medications you’re taking, and past dental treatments.
During the exam, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss any dental concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing, such as tooth pain, sensitivity, or changes in your oral health. Your dentist will then conduct a visual examination and inspect your mouth, teeth, and gums for signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and signs of tooth decay or damage.
In some cases, dental X-rays may be taken to assess the underlying structures of your mouth, including the teeth, jawbone, and surrounding tissues. X-rays can reveal hidden dental issues that may not be visible during a visual examination.
Your dentist may do an assessment of your bite and jaw alignment to check for issues such as misalignment, teeth grinding (bruxism), or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Additionally, your dentist may perform screenings for oral health conditions such as gum disease and oral cancer.
Based on the findings of the dental exam, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific oral health needs. This may include recommendations for preventive measures, restorative treatments, or cosmetic procedures to address any existing issues and improve your oral health.
What Is Professional Cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning is performed by a dentist or dental hygienist and complements regular brushing and flossing at home. During a professional cleaning, your oral healthcare provider will use specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline.
After plaque and tartar removal, the dental hygienist will polish your teeth using toothpaste and a rotating polishing tool. This helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean. A professional dental cleaning is important for a number of reasons:
- Removal of Plaque and Tartar: Despite diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate on the teeth over time, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Tartar is hardened plaque which cannot be removed with regular at-home brushing and flossing. Only a professional dental cleaning can remove both plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and other oral health issues.
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health problem that can lead to gum inflammation, bleeding, and tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from the gum line so that gum tissue can stay healthy.
- Fresher Breath: Poor oral hygiene can contribute to bad breath, also known as halitosis, due to the buildup of bacteria and food particles in the mouth. Professional dental cleanings remove these odor-causing substances, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
- Whiter, Brighter Smile: Professional dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and discoloration from the teeth, resulting in a whiter, brighter smile that you can feel good about showing off.
- Early Detection of Oral Health Issues: During a dental cleaning, dental hygienists may identify early signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum recession, or tooth decay. They can alert the dentist to these issues for further evaluation and treatment as needed.
Why These Twice-A-Year Visits Are Important
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling dental exams and cleanings at least twice a year–that would mean one appointment every six months. Dental check-ups are a worthy investment, as any dental issues addressed early on through regular exams and cleanings can help save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run by avoiding more extensive and costly treatments. You can also look forward to a professional-level clean you can’t achieve at-home and benefit from consistent monitoring of your oral health. For your healthiest smile yet, schedule your check-up with Zen Smiles Dentistry at 925-837-4486.