The Importance of Oral Exams
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a crucial component of your overall health, as it helps prevent the two primary causes of tooth loss; decay (cavities) and gum disease. In addition to preventing disease, your breath will smell better and you will be able to feel good about the aesthetics of your smile.
We recommend visiting the dentist for a professional teeth cleaning appointment and checkup at least two times per year. At your exam, your dentist may perform an oral cancer screening, as well as X-rays to see what is going on below the gum line and with your jaw.
Oral Cancer Screening
As oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth and surrounding tissues, your dentist will check your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, gums, and other tissues for any signs. They may also use intraoral cameras to look if they feel the naked eye is not enough.
Proper Oral Hygiene At Home
Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time in order to keep your smile healthy between dental appointments. Be sure to also floss daily, and eat a balanced diet.
Dental Hygiene Cleaning
When the bacteria in your mouth mixes with food and saliva in your mouth, it can cause plaque. Plaque build up on your teeth and if left uncleaned for too long, may cause tooth decay and infection in the gums.
To help prevent this, your hygienist will use a scaler to remove as much tartar and plaque build-up below the gum line as possible. Then, they will use a polisher and a coarse toothpaste to remove left over plaque or stains. Finally, they will floss your teeth and gums.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is able to rebuild your tooth enamel, which can prevent or even reverse tooth decay. If you are already at high risk of tooth decay, your dentist or dental hygienist may suggest a fluoride treatment in addition to the regular cleaning.
Preventive Dental Care FAQs
Check out answers to our most commonly asked questions about what to expect at your Calgary teeth cleaning and dental checkup appointment.
- How long will my visit take?
The duration of your first visit may vary, but the minimum time is 60 minutes.
- Do you offer hygiene-only appointments?
Yes! If you are looking for a hygiene-only appointment, please contact our office.
- Will I have to get X-rays?
We highly recommend digital dental X-rays as a part of your complete oral exam. Digital dental X-rays provide us insight into what's going on with your teeth, allowing us to provide the best possible treatment.
- Will I be asked about my health history?
Yes, it is important for your dental care provider to have a thorough understanding of your health history. Your information is always kept confidential.
- How do cavities occur?
When the bacteria in your mouth mixes with food and saliva, it can cause plaque. Plaque builds up on your teeth and if left for too long, may cause tooth decay or cavities. This same plaque buildup can also cause an infection in the gums called gum disease or gingivitis.
- Can I ask questions at my appointment?
Our friendly team is happy to answer any questions you may have about dental care. We will help you learn more about proper brushing and flossing, gum disease, tooth decay, dental sealants, and the relationship between smoking and oral health.