Dental Exams and Professional Cleanings: The Importance of the Basics
One reason that so many patients in the Lake Jackson area come to Bell Dental is our commitment to comprehensive care. We offer the latest in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services geared at improving dental health and beautifying smiles. And yet when it comes to the primary focus of our practice, it really does come back to the basics. With that in mind, we wanted to consider why regular visits to your dentist are so crucial to having a healthy smile.
Routine Checkups: The Cornerstone of Great Dental Health
So many people take regular checkups with their dentist for granted, but these visits that take place every six months truly are the cornerstone to good dental health. Your dentist provides the kind of attention and care that goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. If you have a serious health issue, your dentist can catch it and treat it during its earliest stages.
Taking X-rays and Other Advanced Diagnostics
During your regular dental visits, you will usually have x-rays taken. This will allow your dentist to really scrutinize the internal structures of your teeth as well as the condition of your jawbone and jaw joint. This is just one of many ways that your dentist identifies potential problems that can be treated in the near future.
A Thorough Professional Cleaning
A professional cleaning is also performed during your visit, with your dentist and a hygienist flossing, polishing, and scraping in those hard-to-reach places. This helps remove plaque and built up tartar and keeps your teeth extremely clean.
Examining Your Teeth and Gums Up Close
After your teeth have been flossed and polished, your dentist will then examine the teeth and gums. Each tooth gets noted individually to ensure proper alignment and appearance, and the gum are checked for potential problems (e.g., lesions, recession). This check, combined with dental x-rays, means your dentist gets a good overall glimpse at the state of your current dental health.
Talking About Your Concerns and Addressing Your Questions
Some issues aren't visible to the eye or to the x-ray machine, however. That's why it's important to discuss some pressing concerns that you may have with your dentist directly. Persistent bad breath? Issues with dry mouth? Feel a bit of clicking in the jaw? Be sure to mention those issues so your dentist can look into them further. Even something as minor as an on-again/off-again cold sore could be the first signs of a serious problem.
Making Plans About Your Future Dental Health Needs
If you need to undergo some sort of treatment, such as a cosmetic procedure to improve the look of your smile or the placement of a dental crown, this can be discussed closer to the end of your appointment. Schedule and planning these treatment needs will also allow you to learn more about your health needs.
Sharing Tips to Improve Your Smile
In addition to all of the services above, your dentist will also pass on some tips that will help you have a healthy and beautiful smile for years down the road. This may involve the right kind of toothbrush to buy, an ideal toothpaste for your sensitive teeth, or a few foods and drinks you should avoid to keep your smile looking great.
Schedule a Consultation at Bell Dental
To schedule a visit to our dental practice and learn more about all of your treatment options, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. Dr. Brian K. Bell and Dr. Justin J. Crocker look forward to your visit and helping you have the healthiest and most beautiful smile possible.
