What to Expect During Your Dental Cleanings
During your dental cleaning, one of our experienced hygienists will
carefully clean your entire smile. They will remove plaque and bacteria from
areas that couldn’t be reached at home with brushing and flossing.
They may also clean away tartar—which is a hardened form of plaque
that can lead to decay and gum disease. Additionally, this is a great
opportunity to ask us any questions about your teeth, and our hygienist may
give you some at-home oral healthcare tips.
In cases of gum disease, we may recommend a deep cleaning, also called
scaling and root planing. During your dental exam, if Dr. Najjar notices
that you have signs of gum disease, she may recommend this procedure.
Scaling and root planing can effectively clean your smile and minimize your
risk of gum disease for the future.
What to Expect During Your Dental Exams
After your teeth have been cleaned, Dr. Najjar will examine your smile. She
will check for tooth decay, and gum disease, measuring the gums to ensure
that they’re healthy. She will use digital X-Rays to check for
potential issues that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Dr. Najjar
will also look for problems such as oral cancer. This type of cancer is
among the most treatable if caught early on, which is why she takes extra
time to check your throat, lips, gums, mouth, tongue, and any other related
areas for cancer.
An Emergency Dental Exam Vs. a Full Mouth Exam
If you have a dental emergency, the first step that your dentist in DeSoto
will take is an emergency dental exam. She will carefully examine the
affected area, developing a personalized treatment plan for your toothache,
broken tooth, lost tooth, or other emergency issues. This emergency exam,
also called a limited exam, is not as comprehensive as a normal dental
checkup because it’s designed to be quicker, eliminating steps like
looking for oral cancer or gum disease.
The Importance of Dental Checkups & Cleanings
The American Dental Association recommends regular checkups and cleanings
every 6 months because these visits are designed to prevent and detect oral
health issues before they become more severe. Many dental problems like oral
cancer can occur without any symptoms, making a routine trip to our office
potentially life-saving. Additionally, research is continuing to show a
strong connection between your oral and overall health. Problems like gum
disease can increase your risk of serious issues like strokes, diabetes,
heart attacks, and more.
