Oral Examinations
Regular oral exams give your dentist the opportunity to identify any oral health issues and make a plan to treat them accordingly.
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 Health Care at Home
To keep your smile healthy between dental appointments, be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day.
Dental Hygiene Cleaning
Before or after your exam, your dental hygienist will perform a cleaning of your teeth and gums to help 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 to remove any leftover stains or plaque, followed by thorough flossing.
Fluoride Treatment
If you are at a heightened risk of tooth decay, your dental hygienist or dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help to strengthen tooth enamel to prevent or slow down tooth decay.
