Regular dental visits are an important part of general dentistry, which includes treatments that help patients improve their oral health. We recommend that patients visit our office twice a year or every six months. But why are routine visits important, and what happens during a dental cleaning? Here we will answer common questions about regular dental visits and routine care from your dentist in Greenwood, IN. If you have other questions about dental cleanings, please let us know.
Q&A From Your Dentist in Greenwood, IN
Many patients have common questions about their dental care, including:
Why do dental hygienists scrape your teeth and gums?
During a dental cleaning, our hygienists use metal tools to scrape the mouth, which is also known as scaling. Scaling removes plaque and tartar from the smile. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can harden to form tartar. Tartar is more difficult to remove at home, which is why scaling in our office can help patients who are noticing buildup between their teeth.
Why do they take X-rays at dental visits?
We take dental X-rays to see areas of the smile we cannot see with a visual exam. Using X-rays, we can see the nerves, blood vessels, and jaw bone beneath the gums. Our team can use X-rays to find dental problems and create treatment plans custom-made for each patient.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
During a routine cleaning, we use a small mirror to visually examine the smile, looking for signs of gum disease and tooth decay. Then, we remove plaque and tartar by scraping at the gum line and between teeth. We brush the teeth with gritty toothpaste and then floss between each tooth. Finally, we rinse the mouth and can apply fluoride to the teeth.
Why are routine dental visits important?
We provide dental cleanings, X-rays, and examinations during regular dental visits. This routine dental care is important because it lets us track the patient’s oral health. We can also create treatment plans if patients have a current dental problem or if we find an emerging dental issue. Patients visiting the dentist regularly are more likely to receive care for early dental problems before they worsen over time.
Do you have a current dental problem or need to schedule a cleaning? Call Beautiful Smiles at (317) 888-4044. Feel free to request your next dental appointment with Dr. Benjamin Stevens online. We’re here to help you schedule dental visits so you can receive high-quality preventative care. Let us know if you have any more questions; we will be happy to assist you.
