Dental exams and cleanings are critical to having healthy teeth. A dental professional will examine the mouth thoroughly to prevent tooth decay, gum disease or other oral health problems that can cause major damage if left untreated. Many times, Dr. Dickey may notice potential problems before patients have even noticed symptoms. After your dental exam, a dental hygienist will also clean the teeth carefully to remove excess plaque and tartar in order to maintain your oral health.
Did You Know?
The number of individuals avoiding dental treatment as they get older is on the rise. According to statistics from the CDC, just 57% of Americans over the age of 65 visited their dentist in 2010. That compares to about 61 percent of youngsters under the age of 6 and about 79 percent of children between two and 17 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need a dental exam and cleaning?
Everyone can benefit from regular dental exams and cleanings, no matter their age or current level of oral health. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends that you have a dental exam and cleaning twice a year. If it has been awhile since your last exam and cleaning, schedule an appointment with Dr. Dickey of Dickey Dental today.
What happens during a dental exam at Dickey Dental?
At Dickey Dental, a typical dental exam includes several parts: a discussion of your oral health and medical history, dental x-rays, and an examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw. If necessary, Dr. Dickey may do further examinations to check for problems such as cavities or periodontal disease. He will then discuss his findings and provide you with advice on how to care for your teeth with proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as useful tips on diet, hygiene and home dental care.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning consists of removing plaque and tartar (calculus) that cannot be reached with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque hardens over time and turns into tartar, which can only be removed with special dental tools.
During a dental cleaning at Dickey Dental, you can expect to have a dental hygienist remove excess plaque and tartar removed from your teeth using special instruments. Your teeth will also be brushed with a gritty toothpaste and flossed. After rinsing your mouth, a fluoride varnish will then be applied to keep your teeth healthy.
Do I need to follow any special guidelines after my appointment?
After your appointment, be sure to maintain your regular home dental care routine. In addition to brushing twice a day and flossing daily, this includes brushing after meals, using fluoride toothpaste, and drinking fluoridated water. It is also important that you schedule appointments twice per year for future exams and cleanings at Dickey Dental.
