General Dentistry Specialist

What Happens During a Check-Up and Cleaning Appointment?

Checkups and cleanings begin with a review of any symptoms or concerns the patient may have, followed by a visual exam of the teeth and gums. Then, the cleaning begins using special instruments and abrasives to remove built-up plaque and tartar from the surfaces of teeth and along the gum-line. During the cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will look for signs of gum disease as well as areas where brushing and flossing are falling short so patients can be provided with tips on how to improve their at-home care. Once the cleaning is complete, the dentist will examine each tooth individually to look for signs of decay, disease or other issues, then develop a treatment plan based on the findings.

Why Do I Need to Have X-Rays?

Dental x-rays provide your dentist with important information about the health of the teeth below the gums, including the roots and the jaw bone supporting the teeth – areas that can’t be adequately assessed during a routine examination and check-up. In children, x-rays can show the development of adult teeth that haven’t emerged yet, so issues like crowding can be addressed early.

What are Dental Sealants?

Dental sealants are clear, liquid coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth where they form a very hard, protective barrier against bacteria that cause decay. Sealants “pool” in tiny fissures and crevices on the tooth surface to prevent bacteria from invading the tooth surface and causing cavities.

What Symptoms Does Gum Disease Cause?

In the early stages of gum disease (called gingivitis), patients may have few or no symptoms. But as the disease progresses, it can cause issues like swollen or sore gums, bleeding gums, tooth pain, receding gums, and chronic bad breath. Eventually, tooth roots become loose and weak and tooth loss occurs.

How is Gum Disease Treated?

Mild gingivitis can often be treated with frequent dental cleanings to remove tartar and bacteria and help gums re-adhere to the tooth surfaces to prevent further problems. Patients with more advanced gum disease usually need in-depth cleaning procedures called root planing and scaling, both of which are designed to remove bacteria below the gums and around the tooth root. Special antibiotics applied during deep cleaning can also help destroy hard-to-reach bacteria.