Unlocking the Benefits of Regular Dental Exams & Cleanings
Taking care of your oral health is essential for your overall well-being and maintaining a confident smile. One of the key pillars of oral care is regular dental exams and cleanings. These routine visits to your Ashland, OR dentist, Dr. James Burneson plays a vital role in preventing dental problems, detecting issues at their earliest stages, and ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.
What Are Dental Exams & Cleanings?
Dental exams and cleanings are preventive dental procedures that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. These routine visits to your dentist involve two main components: the examination and the cleaning.
During the examination, Dr. Burneson dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health. He will check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues. X-rays may be taken to get a closer look at any potential problems that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
The cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. This process is crucial because plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing alone. Your Ashland dentist will use special instruments to scrape away these deposits, leaving your teeth clean and smooth.
Benefits of Dental Exams & Cleanings
Prevention of Dental Problems: Regular exams and cleanings help prevent the development of dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Early detection and intervention can save you from more extensive and costly treatments down the road.- Early Detection of Oral Health Conditions: Dental exams allow your Ashland dentist to identify potential oral health conditions in their early stages. Detecting problems like oral cancer or gum disease early significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.
- Fresh Breath and Whiter Teeth: Professional cleanings remove stubborn stains and plaque that can contribute to bad breath. Dr. Burneson will polish your teeth, leaving you with a brighter, more confident smile.
- Overall Health Benefits: Good oral health is linked to overall health and well-being. Regular dental exams have been associated with a reduced risk of certain medical conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Prevention of Dental ProblemsHow Does the Procedure Work?
- Examination: Your Ashland dentist will visually examine your mouth, gums, and teeth, checking for any signs of dental issues or abnormalities. X-rays may be taken to get a more detailed view of your oral structures.
- Cleaning: Dr. Burneson will use specialized tools to scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas. They will then polish your teeth to remove surface stains and make them smoother.
- Education and Recommendations: Dr. Burneson will provide oral hygiene instructions tailored to your needs. They may suggest changes in your brushing or flossing techniques or recommend specific dental products to improve your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
While dental cleanings can remove some surface stains and make your teeth appear brighter, they are not designed to be a tooth whitening treatment. If you are interested in whitening your teeth, consult your dentist for appropriate options.
Yes, it is generally safe to undergo dental exams and cleanings during pregnancy. In fact, maintaining good oral health is particularly important during pregnancy due to hormonal changes that can increase the risk of gum disease. It is advisable to inform your dentist about your pregnancy and any specific concerns you may have, as they can provide appropriate care and take necessary precautions to ensure your comfort and safety during the procedures.
Dental insurance plans often provide coverage for routine dental exams and cleanings. However, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance plan. It’s important to review your insurance policy or consult with your dental insurance provider to understand the coverage details and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Explore the Power of Dental Exams & Cleanings in Ashland, OR
Dental exams and cleanings are fundamental for maintaining good oral health. By undergoing regular exams and cleanings, you can prevent dental problems, detect oral health conditions early, enjoy fresh breath and a brighter smile, and promote overall well-being. Schedule your dental appointments at Today’s Dentistry regularly and follow your Ashland, OR dentist’s recommendations for optimal oral health. Contact Dr. Burneson today by giving us a call at (541) 482-7771 or fill out our online form.