When you see us every six months, we will perform a detailed checkup and also clean your teeth. While for many this seems like a minor procedure, even one that could be skipped, an exam and cleaning is essential for keeping teeth strong and fighting harmful oral bacteria. In today’s blog, your Olathe, KS, dentists will discuss the importance of these visits!
Your Checkup Visit
A checkup means we sit you down and take a close look at your smile for potential signs of trouble. To obtain a clear and detailed picture of your smile, our team will employ advanced digital x-rays and intraoral cameras. The images will be available instantly chairside, and allow us to discuss your diagnosis and help you better understand your oral health. Our team looks closely at the teeth for the earliest stages of demineralization, cavities, or infection. We also watch for the wear and friction that could indicate issues like TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding). Our team looks at the gums for signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease, so we can help prevent the advanced stages linked to adult tooth loss. Of course, we will screen for oral cancer too.
Cleaning Your Teeth
A dental cleaning is then performed, in which we use an ultrasonic scaling device and manual tools to begin breaking up and removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth. Removing the buildup helps prevent issues like tooth decay and gum disease, and also fights bad breath and teeth stains. The process only takes a few minutes to complete. We then polish your teeth for a smoother finish and a brighter appearance. Since brushing and flossing cannot remove plaque and tartar alone, these cavities are essential for protecting the health and stability of your teeth and gums, and avoiding uncomfortable symptoms.
When to See Us
We suggest an initial visit for children at around age one, once the first baby tooth erupts. Once kids reach age two, we suggest a checkup and cleaning every six months. We suggest the same for older children, teens, adults, and seniors. Since decay and other issues take several months to form, routine visits help ensure we identify and treat problems in the earliest stages, often before you experience discomfort. If you have high risk factors for gum disease, then we may suggest a cleaning every three to four months to manage your periodontal health and avoid the risk of tooth loss.
Ready to Finally See Us?
Our team wants to help you maintain good oral health with a checkup and cleaning. For more information on our preventive six-month visits, or to schedule a dental consultation, call E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, and all surrounding communities.