What is a Dental Checkup & Clean?
A dental checkup and clean is a routine appointment with your dentist to maintain optimal oral health. It involves two main components: a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and a professional cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains.
What is done during the Checkup & Clean?
1. Dental Checkup (Examination):
During the dental checkup, your dentist or hygienist will:
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Examine Your Teeth and Gums:
The dentist will visually inspect your teeth and gums for signs of decay, cavities, gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), or other oral health issues.
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Check for Oral Cancer:
The dentist will often check for signs of oral cancer, which may involve examining the mouth, throat, and lymph nodes.
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Take X-rays (if needed):
Depending on your age, medical history, and the dentist's findings, X-rays may be taken to check for hidden problems, such as cavities between teeth or bone loss around the teeth.
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Assess Your Bite and Jaw:
The dentist may evaluate your bite and jaw alignment to check for signs of teeth grinding (bruxism), misalignment, or other issues that could affect your oral health.
2. Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis):
Professional cleaning is an essential part of the checkup, and it typically includes the following steps:
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Plaque and Tartar Removal:
Using special tools, the dentist or hygienist will remove plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque) from your teeth. Plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly, and tartar can only be removed by a professional.
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Scaling:
Scaling involves using manual instruments or an ultrasonic device to remove tartar and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth, particularly around the gumline.
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Polishing:
After scaling, the teeth are polished using a gritty paste to remove surface stains and smooth out the enamel. This makes it harder for plaque to stick to the teeth.
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Flossing:
The hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and food particles, ensuring that all areas are cleaned.
How often should you have a Checkup and Clean?
General Recommendation:
Most people should have a dental checkup and cleaning every six months. However, if you have specific dental concerns or conditions (such as gum disease or a high risk of cavities), your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
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Children and Teens:
Regular visits are also important for children and teens to ensure their teeth and gums are developing correctly and to prevent any future issues.
Benefits of a Dental Checkup & Clean
Prevent Cavities:
Regular checkups and cleaning help catch cavities early before they become larger problems that require fillings or other treatments.
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Prevent Gum Disease:
Professional cleaning helps prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues if left untreated.
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Fresh Breath:
Cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can contribute to bad breath, leading to a fresher mouth.
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Overall Health:
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular checkups can help prevent systemic health issues, like heart disease, diabetes, and infections.
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Detect Early Issues:
Regular dental exams can help detect problems like cavities, gum disease, or even oral cancer early, allowing for timely treatment.