Routine Exams and Cleanings in Colorado Springs, CO
Routine dental exams and cleanings are a cornerstone of good oral health. They are not just about keeping your teeth clean; they are about safeguarding your overall health. At the Mini Dental Implant Center of America in Colorado Springs, we are committed to providing personalized, comprehensive dental care.
Skipping dental visits when there’s no pain or apparent issues is common. However, prioritizing routine oral exams and teeth cleanings is essential for proactive treatments. This approach helps prevent or detect issues like cavities and gum disease early, ensuring swift and straightforward treatment.
Routine Exams and Cleanings: What to Expect
What Happens During a Dental Exam?
A routine dental exam is much more than just checking for cavities. It’s a comprehensive checkup of your oral health. Here’s what you can expect during an exam at the Mini Dental Implant Center of America in Colorado Springs:
- Oral health assessment: We will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
- X-rays: Taking digital X-rays can help us detect issues beneath the surface, as they provide a precise, in-depth view of your oral structures.
- Review of dental and medical history: We will also discuss your past and current medical history, including any medications you’re taking, as these can impact your oral health.
Routine exams are important because they aid in early detection and prevention of serious dental problems. Additionally, catching issues early often means easier and less expensive treatments. These exams also allow Dr. Bashi to provide personalized oral hygiene advice.
Steps in Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleaning is a critical part of your dental visit, which typically involves the following:
- Plaque and tartar removal: Using special tools, we will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, focusing on areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly with routine brushing and flossing at home.
- Teeth polishing: Following plague and tartar removal, we will polish your teeth using a high-speed brush and special tooth polish, resulting in a smoother and cleaner feel.
- Flossing: The hygienist will expertly floss your teeth, removing any leftover plaque or toothpaste from the cleaning and polishing process.
- Fluoride treatment: We may apply a fluoride treatment to help prevent cavities. Fluoride is renowned for its ability to remineralize your teeth and strengthen your enamel.
Routine cleanings prevent the spread of bacteria and infections that can evolve into serious dental issues if left untreated. These cleanings also help treat and prevent gum disease and can improve your overall health by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other medical conditions linked to poor oral hygiene.
Personalized Dental Care
Everyone’s oral health needs are different. Factors like age, diet, lifestyle, and genetics affect how often you should have dental exams and cleanings. While the general recommendation is twice a year, some may need more frequent visits. For instance, patients with a history of gum disease might require more regular checkups.
Making Routine Exams and Cleanings a Priority
Many people avoid the dentist due to dental anxiety, cost concerns, or simply because they don’t realize the importance of regular exams. At our practice, we strive to make visits comfortable and stress-free. We also offer various payment and insurance options to make dental care accessible.
One of the most immediate consequences of skipping dental visits is the increased risk of cavities. Regular cleanings help prevent the spread of bacteria, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay. If decay progresses, treatment may require more involved procedures like fillings, crowns, root canals, or even extraction.
Routine dental exams and cleanings significantly impact your long-term oral health. They help prevent tooth loss and decrease the likelihood of painful dental emergencies. Dental exams can also help us detect other health issues that might first appear as symptoms affecting the mouth.
Visit Dr. Bashi for Your Routine Exams and Cleanings
Regular dental care keeps your smile bright and helps you avoid more extensive and expensive treatments in the future. Don’t wait for dental issues to become urgent. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and begin the journey toward optimal oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dental exam involves a thorough oral health assessment, including screenings for issues like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. A dental cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, promoting optimal oral hygiene. While exams diagnose potential problems, cleanings contribute to preventive care by maintaining a clean and healthy smile.
There are different types of dental cleanings designed to meet various needs. Regular cleanings, typically every six months, focus on plaque and tartar removal. Deep cleanings, also called scaling and root planing, address more severe gum issues by cleaning below the gumline. Your cleaning will depend on your individual oral health needs. Our practice is fully equipped to customize treatments according to each patient’s unique needs.
The foundation of good oral hygiene lies in a few simple yet effective practices designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy. A strong oral hygiene regimen begins with daily brushing using fluoride toothpaste, which helps remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. It is also essential to floss daily to clean the spaces between your teeth where a toothbrush might not reach. Regular use of mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet low in sugar and high in fruits and vegetables supports overall dental health. Finally, regular dental checkups and cleanings are crucial for detecting and addressing any issues early. Together, these steps form a comprehensive approach to oral hygiene that can lead to a lifetime of healthy smiles.