Dental Checkups and Cleanings Near You
A commitment to oral hygiene is the foundation of a confident smile and a gateway to optimal dental health. A strong oral care routine, including brushing and flossing, paired with routine cleanings and checkups from a dentist near you keeps your smile in top form.
During these preventative appointments, our dentist and hygienists work together to assess your smile, remove debris, and help it shine. If you’re interested in booking an appointment, you’re encouraged to contact our local dental practice. We are happy to help you!
What is a Dental Checkup?
A dental checkup, also called an exam, is a general dentistry treatment that aims to detect issues before they become serious. The dentist will inspect your teeth and oral cavity for any of the following:
- Decay
- Gum disease
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Red or swollen gums
- Sores
An oral cancer screening may also be done at the discretion of the dentist. This inspection takes just a few minutes to do.
Here are the steps involved in a dental checkup at Avalon Dental:
- We’ll warmly welcome you upon arrival so you feel completely at ease.
- Dr. Steed, will proceed to visually examine your teeth, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the top and bottom of your mouth. Usually, a small round mirror is used, as this instrument allows us to see your oral structures from different angles.
- X-rays may also be done. These detailed images help us assess the health of the structures below the surface of the gums, including your tooth roots, sinuses, nerves, and jawbone. X-rays emit very little radiation and are safe for patients of all ages.
What is a Dental Cleaning?
A hygienist performs the cleanings. This treatment is done to get rid of plaque and tartar from your smile, preventing or reducing the chances of cavities forming. Cleanings are frequently combined with checkups.
Even with a thorough brushing and flossing routine, plaque and tartar have a knack for clinging to those elusive spots.That’s why professional dental cleanings are essential to ensure a complete clean and a healthy, glowing smile.
Your experience towards a fresh smile includes:
- One of our hygienists will begin with the scaling.This entails using a tool called a scaler to etch any plaque and tartar deposits from your smile, including its surface, along the gum line, and between your teeth.
- Your teeth will be brushed with a toothpaste that’s gritty in texture.This removes any lingering debris and scrubs stains from your smile, helping it shine brighter.
- We’ll floss your smile to ensure those hard-to-reach places are cleaned out.
- You can spit and rinse before the final step, fluoride application. Fluoride is a natural product that helps defend your teeth against cavities. It may come as a mouthwash, varnish, or foam-like gel. The fluoride remains on your teeth for one minute before you can rinse again.
If you have any questions or concerns about getting a dental checkup or cleaning near you, be sure to let us know! At Avalon Dental, our patients always come first; whatever you require to have a positive, effective experience, we will provide.
How Often Should I Get a Checkup and Cleaning?
It is advised that you book and attend a dental exam and cleaning about every six months. This way, your dentist can on top of any issues and address them right away. It also provides you an opportunity to stay in communication with your dental team and let them know about your needs and goals.
Of course, every smile is different. Some patients may need to come in more often if they’re dealing with certain conditions like gum disease.
Ready to Schedule Your Visit?
At Avalon Dental, our experienced dentists in Edmonton are dedicated to aiding everyone who walks through our clinic doors. If you’re looking to book an appointment with us, please call 780-465-0994 today. We look forward to working with you soon!