Preventive dental care can go a long way in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Besides self-care at home, such as brushing and flossing twice a day and using medicated mouthwash, what matters as much is dental exams and cleanings. You should meet your general dentist in Plymouth, MN, at least twice every for a checkup, and if you are wondering what happens during such appointments, we have an overview below.
Comprehensive oral exam
When you schedule a visit for preventive care, your dentist will usually start by checking your teeth and gums. They will look for potential signs of disease and whether there are developing cavities that need attention. A part of the appointment is also about oral cancer screening, and such screenings are critical for diagnosing and treating cancer before complications arise. Your dentist may suggest better ways to maintain your oral hygiene, and for children, it often means demonstrating how to brush and floss and tips to avoid dental disease.
Regular dental cleanings
Besides the oral exam, the appointment may include a dental cleaning session. There are three types of dental cleanings, and all of them serve the same purpose – remove bacterial growth and minimize the risk of teeth and gum problems. The most common type of dental cleaning is called prophylaxis, where the dentist will do a standard process to remove plaque and tartar. If a patient hasn’t had a cleaning in more than six months or a year, the dentist may suggest debridement, which takes longer and involves removing extensive plaque. Some patients may also need deep dental cleaning procedures if they have signs of gum disease. These procedures are root planning and scaling, which are effective for reversing mild to moderate periodontitis.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
If your dentist recommends standard dental cleaning, they will first use a scaler to remove tartar and plaque. You may hear some sounds, but the procedure doesn’t hurt. They will also use gritty toothpaste to gently scrub your teeth and remove bacterial growth. In some cases, the dentist may find a patient is at risk of developing cavities, for which they may do additional treatments, such as sealants. Fluoride treatments are also helpful. Typically, experts recommend getting dental X-rays every three years, and if you haven’t done imaging in a while, the dental professional may do the same.
Why do dental cleanings and exams matter?
Regular exams and dental cleanings can reduce the risk of gum disease, cavities, and decay. It is also critical for your overall health and can address a wide range of issues, such as bad breath. Not to forget, preventive care is cheaper than advanced treatments required to address teeth and gum diseases. 
Root planing and scaling
If a patient has a history of gum disease or has developed early signs, root planing and scaling can help. Standard dental cleanings usually focus on the visible part of the teeth, while these procedures go beyond the gum line. Plaque and tartar can cause pockets between teeth and gums, which can lead to advanced periodontitis. Scaling and root planning ensure these pockets are addressed, and mostly, local anesthesia is used for the procedures, ensuring there is no pain and discomfort. Deep cleaning may take an hour or more.
Final takeaway
If you have any questions about oral care, your preventive dentist in Plymouth can answer them for you. Regular exams are a great way to address evident issues that can otherwise lead to severe complications. You can also discuss how to change your dental hygiene habits according to your age and needs besides asking for product recommendations and when to return for the next exam.
