Cleanings and Exams: The Importance of Prevention
As your San Luis Obispo preventive dentists, we believe in the power of prevention. We strive to help our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums, understanding that overall health is closely linked to oral health. That’s why we recommend regular cleanings and exams, which are essential for keeping your smile bright, healthy, and disease-free.
What are Cleanings and Exams?
Cleanings and exams are routine dental procedures performed to maintain good oral health. During a cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, while an exam is designed to detect any oral health problems early on. Together, these procedures can help you avoid serious dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.
Benefits of Cleanings and Exams
There are numerous benefits to getting regular cleanings and exams from a preventive dentist in San Luis Obispo, CA. Some of the most notable benefits include:
Preventing Tooth Decay: Regular cleanings can remove plaque and tartar, which can lead to cavities if left untreated.
Freshening Your Breath: Cleanings remove bacteria and food particles that cause bad breath.
Preventing Gum Disease: Exams can detect early signs of gum disease, which can prevent more serious issues like tooth loss.
Early Detection of oral cancer: Exams include an oral cancer screening, which can help detect early signs of cancer.
Saves You Time and Money: By visiting us regularly for cleanings and exams, you can prevent many dental problems from developing in the first place. This can save you time and money on more costly treatments.
What Happens During a Routine Cleaning and Exam?
During a cleaning, a dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. They’ll also polish your teeth to remove any surface stains and give you a brighter smile. The cleaning process typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
During an exam, your San Luis Obispo dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of problems, which can include checking for cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Your dentist may also take X-rays to get a better look at your teeth and jaw. The exam process typically takes about an hour. Once your exam is complete, your San Luis Obispo dentist will draft a treatment plan as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend getting a cleaning and exam every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease or other oral health issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Many dental insurance plans cover cleanings and exams as preventative care. Check with your insurance provider to see what is covered under your plan. If you’re underinsured or uninsured, talk to your dentist about financing options.
Cleanings and exams are not painful. However, if you have sensitive teeth or gums, you may experience some discomfort during the cleaning process. Your dental hygienist can work with you to make the process as comfortable as possible. If you experience severe pain during a routine exam, it may point to an issue your dentists can diagnose and treat.
Before your appointment, be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. This will help ensure that your dental hygienist can clean your teeth more effectively.
Protect Your Oral Health Year-Round With Cleanings and Exams
At our San Luis Obispo dental office, we’re committed to helping our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Our team of experienced dental professionals will provide you with a thorough and comfortable cleaning and exam, helping you to maintain optimal oral health.
If you’re in San Luis Obispo or the surrounding areas such as Santa Margarita, Arroyo Grande, and Pismo Beach, CA, we encourage you to contact us for a cleaning and exam by dialing (805) 549-8483. You can also click the button below to schedule an appointment and we’ll get back to you shortly.
