Dental checkups and cleanings at a dental clinic what should I expect

1. Dental checkups and cleanings at a dental clinic: what should I expect? A dental checkup and cleaning are essential to maintain good oral health. Regular checkups can help detect any dental issues early on, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth and gums healthy. A dental Clinic checkup usually involves a physical exam of your teeth, gums, and mouth, while a dental cleaning is a procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. In this article, we'll look at what to expect during a dental checkup and cleaning. The dental checkup During a dental checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. The dentist will use a small mirror to examine your teeth and check for any signs of cavities, decay, or other issues. They may also use a special tool called a probe to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums. This can help identify any signs of gum disease or periodontitis. Next, your dentist will examine your gums and check for any signs of inflammation or bleeding. They may also check the alignment of your teeth and look for any signs of bite problems. The dentist may also check your tongue, throat, and other soft tissues in your mouth for any signs of infection, oral cancer, or other issues. X-rays If your dentist suspects any dental issues, they may recommend taking x-rays of your teeth. Dental x-rays can help detect any cavities or decay that may not be visible during a physical exam. They can also help identify any issues with your jaw, such as a misaligned bite or a cyst. X-rays are safe and painless, and the amount of radiation you are exposed to during the procedure is minimal. Your dentist will cover you with a lead apron to protect your body from the radiation. The dental cleaning 1/2

2. After the examination, your dentist or dental hygienist will clean your teeth to remove any plaque, tartar, and stains. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can form on your teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that can't be removed with brushing alone. If left untreated, plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. The dental cleaning procedure typically involves scaling and polishing. Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar from your teeth using a special tool called a scaler. The scaler is used to scrape the buildup from the surface of your teeth and around the gum line. The procedure can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn't be painful. Next, your teeth will be polished using a special toothpaste and a polishing tool. This helps remove any remaining plaque and stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean. After the cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth against decay. Fluoride is a mineral that can help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. Conclusion A dental checkup and cleaning are essential to maintain good oral health. During a dental checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth to check for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other dental problems. They may also take x-rays to help detect any issues that may not be visible during a physical exam. A dental cleaning involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. The procedure typically involves scaling and polishing, and may also include fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth. It's important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health. If you have any concerns about your oral health, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist. 2/2