Why are routine dental cleanings so important?

Your dental hygiene routine affects the quality of your smile.

Proper brushing and flossing are important in keeping your smile at its best. But these habits are more effective with regular dental hygiene appointments.

Even with daily mouth cleaning, stubborn debris and bacteria buildup can remain stuck. You'll need the help of your dental hygienist or dentist to get rid of them.

With routine hygiene cleanings at the dental office, you can keep harmful bacteria at bay and prevent the need for complex treatments.

Dr. Lachman and the rest of our team at Cool Dental provide dental hygiene services to patients of all ages.

• Dental plaque will keep forming on the teeth. It’s hard to see it as it blends with the teeth’s natural color. When not removed, it can lead to cavities and gum issues. Routine hygiene cleanings target plaque and other build-ups on your teeth.
• Your dental hygienist can remove stains caused by the food you eat and your daily habits. You’ll minimize tooth discoloration and achieve a brighter smile.
• During your routine check-ups, your dentist can identify early signs of dental issues and treat them before they progress.
• Healthy gums help keep your heart healthy. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly will help prevent gum diseases and may also reduce your risk of having heart attacks.
• If you’re concerned about bad breath, your dental team can recommend a specific home care routine for you. Your dentist can also determine whether the root cause of the problem is related to your oral health or other underlying medical issues.
• Dental cleanings are usually covered by dental plans. You don’t have to pay for them out-of-pocket (we can verify this on your behalf) and they also help you lower your overall dental expenses.
• Should your dentist detect any issue, early treatment will also help you cut down on dental costs.

What to expect during your regular dental exams

• Oral hygiene evaluation. We talk to you about your dental hygiene routine and lifestyle to better understand the state of your oral health. We’ll check each tooth for decay, cavities, stains, or gum recession.
• Oral cancer screening. We perform a visual exam of the soft tissue for any abnormalities. Should we spot anything unusual, we may refer you to a specialist for a second opinion or request a biopsy for further examination.
• Visual oral examination. We inspect your mouth, teeth, and gums, as well as your jaw. We look for signs of issues. We also ask you about existing medical conditions you might have as well as current medications you’re taking.
• Bite assessment. We take a look at your teeth to see if they’re positioned properly. We examine how your upper and lower teeth come in contact when you close your mouth. We also assess how your teeth and jaw joints work together.
• X-rays. If required, we also take your x-rays to examine potential problem areas and detect any irregularities that visual examinations won't spot.
• Checking existing dental restoration. We also examine any existing dental work you may have, such as crowns or crowns, to see if they’re still in good condition and find out if anything needs to be fixed or replaced.
• Counseling. Your dental exam may also include counseling on areas that can affect your oral health such as daily habits, food choices, and home care routine.