The Importance of a Dental Cleaning
Have you ever wondered why people get their teeth cleaned every 6 months? If there’s no pain, there’s no problem, right? That may not be true. Oftentimes, once you start to feel the notorious “toothache” pain, it may be far worse than if you the problem had been found early - at your bi-annual check-up! Your dental team is primed and ready to catch even the smallest crack or cavity in order to prevent a bigger problem.
Here’s what you need to know about your dental cleaning appointment:
Each hygiene visit is much more than “just a cleaning”. It includes removal of built up plaque and calculus, periodontal exam and maintenance, screening for oral cancer and other health issues which may manifest themselves in the mouth.
Many serious and costly dental problems may be caught early - saving time, money and discomfort. Often these early signs are not noticeable to the patient alone.
This time is a perfect opportunity for dental education, both on home-care and also dental services that are available to you that you may not be aware of.
During Your Dental Exam:
Even though a dental exam may only last for a few minutes, there are many critical things your doctoris checking for.
Oral Cancer Screenings: According to the National Cancer Institute, over 40,000 people are diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx, and nearly 8,000 people die from this disease every year. As with many cancers, early detection is crucial and can result in an 80-90% recovery rate. During the screening, your dentist will check the inside of your mouth for sores, red or white patches or changing tissues. If an abnormality is found, further tests such asa biopsy, dye test or light test may be performed.
Tooth Decay: Even if you brush and floss each day plaque can start to build up those hard to reach places. You might not be aware that if we catch a weak spot early, often the decay can be reversed entirely with fluoride treatment and a prescription toothpaste. However, if the cavity goes undetected for too long, it can turn into hundreds of dollars of treatment to restore.
Gum Disease: Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is the first stage of gum disease. While gingivitis is usually reversible tissue damage, if left untreated, it can turn into periodontal disease, which leaves more permanent damage. When a person develops periodontitis, the gums pull away from the tooth, leaving an open space. Debris collects in these open "pockets,"and they can become infected. Toxins from the bacteria in the pockets break down and destroythe bone and tissues that are surrounding them. This is a severe condition that requires more aggressive treatment.
Medical Conditions: Many health issues have symptoms that can often be detected in the mouth. Some examples include vitamin deficiencies, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, leukemia, thyroid problems, high blood pressure, asthma, sleep and breathing disorders, HIV,tuberculosis and even anxiety. Your dentist may be able to tip you off to a health-related issue that your doctor should further examine.
Regular, 6 month oral exams also give you the opportunity to discuss any concerns you have been experiencing such as snoring or sleep apnea, TMJ, sensitive teeth, dry mouth, or chronic bad breath.
Did you know preventative care makes “cents”?
Even if you brush and floss each day, plaque can start to build up in those hard to reach places. We've all felt sensitivity to hot, cold, or sugar, but putting off getting it looked at can have serious consequences.
You might not be aware that if we catch a weak spot early, often the decay can be reversed with fluoride treatment and a special toothpaste. (Cost estimate $50)
If the cavity has just formed on the surface, air abrasion can be used to gently blast the decay away without the need for anesthesia or a drill. (Cost estimate $160)
Of course, if the cavity is too large, more of the tooth structure will need to be removed with a drill and depending on the size, may turn into an inlay or onlay. (Cost estimate $500)
If too much tooth structure is destroyed, a crown will be necessary. (Cost estimate $1200)
If the tooth must be removed, a dental bridge or implant can be used as a tooth replacement. (Cost estimate $5000)
Don't wait until it is too late. Regular dental cleanings ensure problems are detected early before hundreds or even thousands of dollars of treatment are necessary. Call our office to schedule your next dental cleaning today. Don’t have insurance? Don’t worry, we have an In-Office Membership Plan that can help you save money and receive the same dental care.
