Oral Examinations
Regular oral exams, ideally twice a year, allow your dentist to prevent, diagnose, and treat oral problems as early as possible.
Regular visits may also make it possible to avoid more complex treatments.
During the dental exam, your dentist will carefully examine the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Your dentist can also take dental x-rays.
After the examination phase, your dentist will begin the treatments with a professional cleaning of your teeth.
Oral Health Care at Home
To keep your smile healthy between dental appointments, be sure to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day.
Dental Cleaning
Before or after your oral exam, your dental hygienist will clean your teeth and gums to prevent and treat plaque and tartar buildup.
The hygienist will then polish the dental surfaces using a coarse toothpaste. Finally, the hygienist will floss.
Fluoride Treatment
Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatment for both adults and children if the patient is at high risk for tooth decay. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help rebuild minerals in tooth enamel, preventing or stopping the progression of cavities.