Hygiene & Preventative Care
Preventative care is essential when it comes to dentistry. The American Dental Association recommends all patients to visit their dentist at least twice a year for a full exam and checkup. Professional teeth cleanings help get rid of plaque buildup that isn’t removable with floss or a toothbrush.
It’s often that dental professionals can detect potential concerns that you yourself may not be able to notice. So with regular cleanings and checkups, we can prevent potential oral health concerns and detect them early before they become advanced.
Are Americans less and less likely to visit the dentist as they age? Data from the Centers for Disease Control reports that only 57% of Americans over age 65 visited the dentist in 2010.
That compares to about 61% of adults under age 65 and about 79% 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to have my teeth professionally cleaned?
Yes! Even if you are brushing and flossing regularly, plaque can still accumulate in the tiny spaces that floss or a toothbrush can’t reach. The longer that plaque stays on your teeth, then the quicker your teeth will begin to decay, which can lead to tooth pain and even tooth loss.
What should I expect at my cleaning and exam consultation?
Your dental checkup will consist of an oral exam where we look at your teeth and gums. If it’s been a while since you’ve had a dental visit, we may do x-rays to get a more comprehensive view of your teeth. If you have any questions during this process, your Arvada dentist will be happy to help answer them. Once the examination has concluded, a dental hygienist will then proceed to clean your teeth using special instruments that will remove plaque from your teeth. After all the plaque has been removed, your teeth will be polished. After this finishes up, your dentist will come in and speak with you about any recommendations they have for you treatment-wise.
What types of guidelines should I follow after my visit?
In between dentist visits, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home. This means flossing and brushing your teeth regularly for the most part. Other important things to add to your hygiene routine is to drink fluoridated water and fluoridated toothpaste.
