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Dental Preventive Care

Although routine brushings and regular flossing are excellent for maintenance between office visits, regular examinations and professional cleanings are an absolute necessity for maintaining oral health.

Professional Dental Cleaning

We recommend that you get a routine dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar which can remain on your teeth even after properly brushing and flossing. Plaque is the sticky, colorless film of food and bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth even when you brush and floss properly every day. Some plaque remains and becomes tartar which can only be removed effectively by a professional cleaning. It is important to remove plaque and tartar because they are the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease. A professional cleaning can also remove some staining on teeth.

To clean your teeth your hygienist will use a variety of specialized instruments to remove plaque and tartar above the gumline. Your dentist and hygienist will recommend the ideal frequency for professional cleanings. Depending on your unique situation we may recommend a visit every 3, 4 or 6 months. While every visit will vary somewhat depending on your needs, generally every check up will include updating your medical history and noting any concerns you may have so we can provide the most appropriate care for you.

We will clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar and then polish them to remove as many surface stains as possible. Your hygienist will perform a careful exam of your mouth and take any necessary x-rays so the doctor can review them and make treatment recommendations.

Regular Examinations

Regular exams are important because neglected oral conditions can lead to serious problems such as infected teeth, tooth loss, shifting teeth and loss of jawbone. With regular dental cleanings, we can help you maintain a healthy mouth and beautiful smile for a lifetime.