Prevent problems before they start. While routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting your dentist for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful.
During your exam, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health problems. Your dentist may also want to take x-rays to see what is happening beneath the surface of your teeth and gums.
Your dental hygientist will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring.
Next, your hygientist will carefully clean your teeth with a variety of instruments to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then, your hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing, compound, and apply flouride. If your dentist or hygienist finds tooth decay or gum disease, they will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits. In severe cases, they may recommend antibiotics or other dental treatments.
Sealant
Fluoride
Prophy
Peridontal screening
Deep cleaning (Peridontal Therapy)
Antibiotic therapy
Fillings are the single most common dental treatment. Given to patients who have small to medium range decay on their teeth, fillings do exactly what their name suggests – they fill the hole caused by the decay and protect the rest of the tooth.