Dental Exam And Cleaning Specialist

What is a dental exam and cleaning?

A dental exam and cleaning are two key parts of your regular oral health care upkeep to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Whenever you come in for routine checkups, the team at Trident Dental provides both services and makes personalized recommendations to improve your oral hygiene habits.

It’s critical to maintain regular dental exams and cleanings for long-term oral health, which is closely linked to your overall health. Dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, can vastly increase your risk of severe health conditions, including heart disease and stroke.

What does a dental exam involve?

At Trident Dental, a comprehensive dental exam with your dentist and hygienist involves the following checks and screenings:

Examination of diagnostic X-rays (radiographs)

This is essential for the detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

Oral cancer screening

During this screening, the team checks your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

Gum disease evaluation

The team assesses your gums and bone around your teeth for any signs of periodontal disease, such as recession, inflammation, or sore, tender gum tissue.

Examination of tooth decay

Your dentist and hygienist look at all tooth surfaces for signs of decay with special dental instruments.

Examination of existing restorations

Your current fillings, crowns, or other restorations are given a thorough once over to make sure necessary adjustments are made.

What does a cleaning involve?

After your dental exam, a professional teeth cleaning with your dentist and hygienist involves the following:

Removal of tartar

Tartar is hardened plaque that accumulates on the surface of your teeth and gets firmly attached. It forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

Removal of plaque

Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on your teeth. It’s a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva that that inflames your gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease.

Teeth polishing

During this last step, your dentist and hygienist remove any stains and plaque that haven’t otherwise been removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

How often do I need to come in for a dental exam and cleaning?

Typically, the team at Trident Dental recommends coming in for routine checkups, an exam, and a cleaning at least twice a year. In some cases, depending on your oral health history, you may need to come in more frequently.

To schedule your next appointment at Trident Dental, call the office today or use the online booking tool and set up a time to come in.