Preventative care is a foundation of dentistry. In every case, it will always be better for your health to prevent dental problems than to fix them. However, oral and dental health rely on consistent care and cleaning. At My Dentist Anaheim, we offer thorough dental cleanings that keep your smile healthy and clean.
We use the latest techniques and instruments to provide our patients with a comfortable and effective cleaning experience. During your visit, we will provide a thorough examination and consult with you about any need for dental treatments or procedures.
We understand that it can be challenging to take time out of your schedule for a dentist visit, especially if everything seems fine. However, regular visits and checkups are vital. Without them, your teeth will miss out on crucial cleaning techniques only available through a dentist. Of course, brushing and flossing are highly important, but they are only part of a complete dental hygiene lifestyle.
The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist about twice yearly. These visits should include:
Professional dental teeth cleanings help remove built-up plaque that is not removable using conventional brushing and flossing. Removing this build-up takes special tools and training that you can’t get at home.
Often, dentists are also capable of identifying potential problems that patients are not yet able to see or feel. For example, you might have the beginning of a tooth infection, but you don’t feel it yet. During your checkup, your dentist can catch the problem before it becomes a larger issue.
When you maintain regular preventative dental appointments, you can stave off decay and gum disease and identify the beginnings of oral health problems before they become severe. In the long run, this saves you time, energy, and money.
Did you know that Americans are less and less likely to visit the dentist as they age? Data from the Centers for Disease Control reports that only 57 percent of Americans over age 65 visited the dentist in 2010. That compares to about 61 percent of adults under age 65 and about 79 percent of children ages 2 to 17.
Nonetheless, it is important to visit the dentist for cleanings and exams regardless of how long has passed since your most recent dental appointment. The longer you put off a visit, the more at-risk you become for tooth decay and gum disease.
Yes! As long as you want to avoid tooth decay and gum disease, professional cleaning is a must. Even if you brush and floss after every meal and before bed, bacteria-harboring plaque can accumulate in the tiniest crevices, grooves, and pits. Over time, the teeth will begin to decay in those areas, which may result in pain and partial or total tooth loss.
Your cleaning and consultation will consist of a visible examination of the teeth and gums. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you may also require x-rays for a more comprehensive view of your teeth. You’ll also consult with your dentist about any oral health problems you may have been having or questions that you may have.
The cleaning will follow the initial examination. During your cleaning, a dental hygienist will use special instruments to remove hardened plaque from your teeth. Finally, your teeth will be polished before your dentist discusses any treatment recommendations he or she may have for you.
That is all there is to it. Once your teeth are cleaned, they are protected for a while. However, when another six months come around, it will be time for another cleaning.
In between dental cleanings and consultations, be sure to maintain good oral habits at home. This includes daily flossing and brushing after meals. It’s also important to drink fluoridated water and use a fluoridated toothpaste.
Of course, also watch what you eat. Drinks and foods that are high in sugar can prove big factors in tooth decay. For adults, this often means watching out for sugary coffee beverages and soda drinks.
If it has been 6+ months since your last dental visit, then schedule an appointment today. Dr. Patel, your Anaheim Dentist, and his friendly staff are here to help keep your smile clean and healthy. Take control of your dental health today. Avoid future problems and pain by regularly having a professional dental cleaning treatment. Call us today to learn more about our services and how we can keep your smile bright and healthy.
