Routine dental cleanings are important because they help prevent costly and time-consuming oral health issues. Additionally, they lower your gum disease risk. Dental cleanings are part of your twice-yearly preventive dental visit, which also includes:
- A comprehensive dental checkup
- Periodic x-rays
- An oral cancer screening
- A conversation with the dentist
Routine dental cleanings work best when accompanied by excellent oral hygiene between dental visits.
About Dental Exams in Harrisonburg, VA
Most dentists agree that you should have dental exams twice yearly. This schedule has been shown to lower your risks for most preventable conditions.
The dental exam is a careful visual check of teeth, gums, oral tissues, and more. Your dentist is looking for oral health changes since your last visit, gum recession, and potential issues that may be asymptomatic, such as small cavities.
X-rays help us diagnose emerging problems that may not show up during a visual exam, such as small cavities between teeth or minor infections.
An oral cancer screening allows for early detection and treatment.
Your teeth cleaning is about eliminating tartar and bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay, oral infections, and gum disease.
After your preventive checkup, the dentist will discuss your findings, outline treatment options, and encourage you to ask questions.
A Special Note on Gum Disease
Teeth cleanings help prevent gum disease, which can cost you your teeth and general wellness. Recent studies show a link between untreated gum disease and serious health issues, including Alzheimer’s disease, heart problems, respiratory issues, rheumatoid arthritis, and pregnancy complications. The latter is due to hormonal changes.
Contact Your Dentist in Harrisonburg, VA
Twice-yearly dental cleanings, checkups with the dentist, and excellent oral hygiene are essential to lifelong oral health.
To schedule your next checkup and teeth cleaning or if you have questions for our team, contact us today at