Cleanings from a general dentist are encouraged once every four to six months. This is a routine visit that does not take long to complete, and it can significantly reduce the risk of dental cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. This guide discusses what you can expect when getting a cleaning from a general dentist.
A cleaning visit may look different for each patient depending on how long it has been since their last visit, the condition of their oral health, and their treatment preference. However, there are certain components of cleanings from a general dentist that most patients can expect.
Before the dental cleaning, the dentist may discuss any concerns the patient is having with their oral health. They may also order dental X-rays if there are not relatively new X-rays already in the system. An oral examination is also conducted to determine the overall status of the patient’s oral health.
The cleaning procedure, which is called oral prophylaxis, involves scaling the teeth to remove any plaque and tartar build-up on the surface of the teeth and along the gum line. The dentist (or hygienist) may also polish the teeth to reduce the risk of plaque and tartar build-up in the future. Lastly, they may provide some care tips to help the patient care for their teeth between visits. A follow-up visit should also be scheduled. This may be for another dental cleaning or for preventive or restorative care if there are any concerns that need to be addressed.
There are no preparation instructions a patient must follow before a cleaning procedure with a general dentist. It may help for the patient to write down a list of questions they would like to ask the general dentist in addition to any concerns they may have had with their oral health since their last visit.
Dental cleanings are important for maintaining a clean and healthy smile. However, the majority of oral care should still take place at home between visits. Patients can protect their smile between cleaning visits by brushing and flossing several times each day. Limiting the consumption of sugar, starch, and other carbohydrates can also have a positive impact on oral health. For patients who grind their teeth at night or are at high risk of dental trauma (e.g., athletes, construction workers), wearing a mouthguard is encouraged.
We encourage cleanings from a general dentist every four to six months. If you are due for your next dental cleaning or have specific oral health concerns that you would like to address, then call us today or send us a message to schedule a visit at a time that is convenient for you.
Are you considering general dentistry in the Turlock area? Get more information at https://www.turlockdentistry.com.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Turlock, CA.
One of the most common dental procedures that general dentists offer is a dental bridge. This is a method of teeth replacement that replaces one missing tooth or a section of missing teeth. A dental bridge most notably addresses a cosmetic concern, but it may offer functional and oral health benefits as well. It is helpful…
General dentists have a lot of ways to help patients improve their dental health because this is what they are trained to do. Their goal is to provide resources for improving dental health, as well as preventive measures that can benefit the teeth and gums. However, in some cases, it is important for patients to…
Has it been a while since you had a general dentist checkup? You know how critical it is to maintain good health. Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is part of your overall wellness. It may be easy to lose track of time, but you cannot forget to keep up on your…
General dentistry includes the restoration of damaged teeth, which may refer to cavities or aesthetic issues, such as staining, chipping, or cracking. Thankfully, there are many ways to restore teeth that have become damaged.The type of damage that occurs will determine what type of restoration is needed. General dentists can identify this as soon as…