When was the last time your family (you included) had a dental checkup? The American Dental Association recommends an exam once every six months, and we agree completely. But what makes a checkup so important for keeping smile of all ages healthy and bright? In today’s blog, we’re looking at what happens during a checkup and why you should see your Tucson, AZ, dentist twice a year.
The Dental Exam
During your exam, we carefully look at your teeth and gums. We also use advanced technology to peer beneath the gums, examining your jaw and oral structures as well. We look for an array of common oral health issues, such as tooth decay, gingivitis, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and bruxism. We also screen adults for the presence of oral cancer. The earlier we identify problems, the sooner we can begin treatment and improve your smile’s health and stability. We recommend regular visits for people ages two and up, and a child’s first visit should happen at around age one. In addition to examining your smile, we will also perform a thorough dental cleaning to help improve overall oral health.
The Cleaning Process
A cleaning helps people of all ages, from children to adults. The procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth with a manual tool and an ultrasonic scaling device. Plaque, a bacterial byproduct, may lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Treatment means protecting your family’s smiles from these issues. After we complete the procedure, we then polish the teeth, which helps ensure a brighter appearance.
Keeping Smiles Healthy From Home
These six-month visits are essential for keeping smiles healthy. But you and your family also need to care for your teeth and gums from home. Our team enjoys educating people on the proper steps for brushing and flossing. When we brush our teeth twice daily for two minutes, and floss before bed, we remove food particles and control the severity of plaque buildup in between office visits. We suggest toothbrushes with soft bristles to prevent inadvertent damage for those who brush too hard, as well as toothpaste containing fluoride. A healthier diet, one with fewer sugary foods and drinks, can also be beneficial. If you have any questions about our routine exams, or about the proper methods of caring for smiles from home, then contact our team today.
We Offer Family Dentistry
If your family is in need of a routine visit, then let our team know. For more information on family dentistry, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office in Tucson, AZ, today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.
