Maintain Your Oral Health with Expert Care
Brushing and flossing at home are essential for maintaining good oral health, but visiting the dentist for checkups and professional cleanings at least twice a year is equally important. These checkups allow your dentist to identify problems in your mouth that you might not notice, enabling timely treatment before any issues progress. Professional cleanings also reach the areas your toothbrush and floss can’t, ensuring a thorough clean.
Benefits of Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings
By routinely visiting Great Florida Smiles & Orthodontics for exams and cleanings, you can:
- Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Save Money: Avoid costly dental procedures by catching issues early.
- Reduce Staining: Keep your teeth white by minimizing stains from food and drinks.
- Shorten Time in the Dentist's Chair: Regular care means fewer extensive treatments.
- Maintain a Beautiful Smile: Enjoy a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
What to Expect During Your Dental Exam
During your dental exam, our dentist will thoroughly examine each tooth and your entire gum line for signs of decay, disease, or other health problems. We may suggest taking X-rays to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. These images help us discover dental issues not visible to the naked eye.
Professional Cleanings
Your professional cleaning will begin with your dental hygienist exploring the surface of your teeth to check for cavities and assess the quality of existing fillings. The hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to ensure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, checking for signs of periodontal disease or bone loss. Next, we’ll carefully clean your teeth using various tools to remove hard mineral buildup (tartar), floss your teeth, polish them, and apply fluoride.
Comfort and Care
Cleanings usually aren’t painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, let your hygienist know. Sedation may be an option to ensure your comfort. If we find tooth decay or gum disease, we'll discuss enhancing your brushing or flossing habits and may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments for severe cases. If your teeth and gums are healthy, we’ll encourage you to continue your current oral hygiene routine.