Prevention is the key to enjoying a healthy, happy smile for a lifetime. Your dentists, Drs. Julia and Brandon White, can keep cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues at bay with regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings in Goode, VA at White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. For most patients, that means every six months. Why are checkups and cleanings so important? And what happens during this regular visit? Let’s take a closer look at these and other questions to help you understand more about preventive dental care.
While some people can get by visiting the dentist annually, most patients need to see their dentist every six months for routine maintenance. The frequency of your appointments depends on your mouth’s propensity for producing plaque—the stuff that quickly turns into tartar and causes cavities and gum disease. Your dentist can make a recommendation for how often you should have a checkup and cleaning.
The first part of a routine dental appointment is the cleaning, or when your dental hygienist gets your teeth sparkling clean and takes any necessary x-rays. Plan for this portion to take from 30 to 45 minutes. To clean the surfaces of and between your teeth, your hygienist uses a combination of special hand tools, brushes, and pastes. He or she will complete the cleaning by flossing between each of your teeth. Once the hygiene portion is complete, your teeth have that smooth feeling we all love after a trip to the dentist.
This part of your visit is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have regarding your oral health. One major role of your hygienist is to provide patient education—like what you could be doing to clean better at home, areas to concentrate on when brushing and flossing, and more.
After your teeth are clean, your dentist will examine your mouth and oral structures. Any X-rays we’ve taken will be checked for problems lurking beneath the surface. If cavities, gum disease, or worn or broken dental work are detected, a plan for restorative care will help return your mouth to its original health.
If you do a good job brushing and flossing your teeth between appointments, your dental hygienist’s job will be easy, and you will enjoy healthier teeth and gums in return. Prevent plaque and tartar buildup every day of the year by brushing for two minutes, twice a day, and flossing every day. Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet and avoid tobacco for healthier teeth and gums.
When was your last dental cleaning in Goode, VA? If it’s been more than six months, it’s probably time for you to come into White Cosmetic & Family Dentistry. Preventive dental care is vital for keeping your smile healthy for a lifetime! Schedule your visit today.