Oral Examinations
To ensure your oral health, it is important to see your dentist regularly, every six to twelve months.
During your exam, your dentist will take a close look at the health of your teeth, gums, jaw and bite. Exams may also include dental X-rays, an oral cancer screening and other diagnostic procedures.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer can affect any part of the mouth or surrounding tissues. During your exam, your dentist will check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums for any signs of oral cancer which are difficult to detect with the naked eye.
Oral Health Care at Home
To keep your smile healthy between dental appointments, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day.
Dental Hygiene Cleaning
During your exam, your dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums to prevent and treat disease.
To begin, they will use a scaler to remove any tartar and plaque build-up. Next they will use a polisher and coarse toothpaste to remove any leftover stains or plaque, followed by a thorough flossing of your teeth and gums.
Fluoride Treatment
If you are at a heightened risk of tooth decay, your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help to rebuild the minerals in your tooth enamel to prevent or reverse tooth decay.
