Regular dental exams are important because they help the dentist detect problems before they become serious.  Neglected dental health can lead to infected teeth, shifting teeth, receding gums, loss of jawbone, and even tooth loss.                                                              
Most dentists, including Dr. Loftus and Dr. Arnall, recommend a dental exam and cleaning every 6 months.  Occasionally, if they see warning signs of peridontal disease or other problems, they may encourage you to come in  once every 3 months for additional care. 

In a typical hygiene appointment, one of our dental hygienists will clean your teeth to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.  Then, she will likely polish your teeth to smooth surfaces and remove stains.  The doctor will perform a visual examination, searching for signs of decay, wear, cracks, and problems with existing restorative work. He will also look for abnormal loss of tooth structure and at the color and countours of your gums for signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease.  The doctor will diagnose sores or lesions of any kind on your toungue and in the soft tissues of your mouth.  These can be signs of oral cancer.  X-rays will be taken to look for conditions that cannot be visually identified - things like bone loss, cysts, abcesses, and other problems between and inside teeth.

Watch the video below for more information about periodontal disease:

Regular cleanings and exams paired with smart brushing and flossing habits will help you maintain a healthy smile.  If you haven't had your teeth cleaned in the last 6 months, please request an appointment with one of our doctors today!