Office Address: 44644 Ann Arbor Rd. Suite F Plymouth, MI 48170
Cleanings & Exams
The American Dental Association recommends having a dental check-up every six months. Before an exam, your dental hygienist thoroughly cleans your teeth and gums. Cleaning removes plaque build-up from the teeth and tartar from the gum lines.
Your hygienist also flosses and polishes your teeth to remove food debris and superficial stains from the surface of your teeth for a brighter smile. You may also be offered a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your tooth enamel.
In between exams, there are steps you can take to improve your oral health:
- Brush your teeth once in the morning and again before bedtime. Use a soft toothbrush in a circular motion to gently remove food and other debris.
- Floss daily. Allowing food to build up enables bacteria to grow.
- Try to eat and drink healthily. Avoid too much sugar, alcohol, and smoking.
- Rinse your mouth and gargle with an antiseptic mouthwash daily.
When carrying out an exam, your dentist looks for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other symptoms of oral distress. Your dental exam will include:
- Checking your teeth and gums to ensure they are healthy.
- X-rays to identify cavities.
- Checking for signs of oral cancer. They will feel around your jaw and check your lips, tongue, roof, and floor of your mouth.
Preventing Gum Disease
A twice-yearly check-up by a qualified professional is essential to maintain good oral health. Cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and other issues are easier and cheaper to treat before they become more serious.
By continuing a daily regimen of cleaning and flossing and eating a healthy diet, you can reduce the risk of developing dental issues that could be painful and costly. If you’re already experiencing any signs of oral distress, it is important that you have a full dental exam as soon as possible.
