Expert care for spotless smiles
We follow the American Dental Association’s recommendation and invite our patients of all ages to have two dental checkups and cleanings per year. Why do these appointments need to happen so frequently? What goes on during these appointments that is so important? Well, they play a critical role in maintaining your oral health in the long run. When you come in to see us for your semiannual preventive checkup, it will consist of two main parts: a dental cleaning and an oral exam.
The Importance of a Dental Cleaning
Even if you brush and floss every day, plaque can still build up over time. Once it hardens, it becomes tartar, which can only be removed using professional tools. Our hygienists are trained and equipped to target these deposits and clear them away. A dental cleaning is designed to address plaque, bacteria, and tartar that has built up on your teeth and gums to give your mouth a fresh start every six months. It also helps prevent oral health problems from having a chance to develop in the future.
The Importance of an Oral Checkup
Afterwards, Dr. John Krell will perform a thorough oral exam. He and his team will look for signs of serious conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and even problems with jaw alignment. Once a year, we also like to take X-rays of your mouth using our digital technology to catch what we may not be able to see with the naked eye. At some point in this exam, your hygienist will also measure the depth of your gums to check for gum disease. Depending on our findings, we’ll recommend a personalized treatment plan that will address all of your individual needs.
By having your mouth examined every six months, you can address any problems while they are still in the early stages of development, which means they will most likely be much easier to treat. If you choose to wait to visit us until you notice an oral problem, it could be much more painful and require more extensive, and expensive, treatment down the road.
Tooth Decay Can Jeopardize Your Smile
Tooth decay can lead to severe tooth damage, tooth loss, pain, and serious infection. Part of protecting your teeth involves being observant of any changes in the appearance or sensitivity of your teeth, as this could indicate the presence of cavities. Tooth decay occurs in stages:
Demineralization: This initial stage of tooth decay is often recognized by white spots that appear on the tooth as it becomes demineralized.
Enamel damage: Enamel damage can occur if demineralization goes untreated. This stage is characterized by darkened spots on the tooth’s surface, with holes also becoming noticeable.
Dentin damage: Just beneath the enamel is the layer known as dentin. When decay reaches this layer, it can cause sensitivity and dark brown spots on the tooth.
Pulp damage: The pulp is at the center of the tooth and delivers the nutrients to the tooth that keep it healthy. When tooth decay progresses until it reaches the pulp, patients can experience severe toothache, swelling, and other intense symptoms. Black areas of the tooth are common at this stage. A root canal may be suggested when pulp decay has occurred.
Abscessed tooth: Finally, a cavity can damage the tooth to such an extent that it is completely vulnerable to infection.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy with professional cleanings, X-rays, and regular brushing and flossing can ensure a lasting smile.
Dental Anxiety
Many patients suffer from crippling anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist’s office. This is referred to as dental anxiety, and it can make even routine dental appointments a feat. Dental anxiety can even lead to patients avoiding the dentist altogether, preventing them from receiving the quality dental care they need. Dr. Krell and his professional staff cater to the needs of their patients, including those who experience heightened levels of anxiety. Several options are available in-office to help patients of all ages feel comfortable during their treatments, including a host of sedation dentistry options that reduce pain and increase comfort levels for the duration of the treatment. Patients can work with Dr. Krell to choose from options such as:
Nitrous oxide: Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide helps patients feel calm and comfortable. The effects of the gas subside quickly, making it an ideal option for those who intend to drive themselves home after treatment.
IV sedation: IV sedation is a fast and highly effective sedation method that is recommended for patients with very high levels of dental anxiety.
Oral conscious sedation: As the name suggests, oral conscious sedation is delivered via pill to help patients relax.
Furthermore, our compassionate team cultivates a friendly atmosphere to further enhance the patient experience.
Making Dental Visits Better
We are committed to helping you keep your smile happy and healthy, but we also care about your time. As a results, we allow you as parents to schedule your appointment to coincide with your children’s so that you can be in and out in one visit. Working efficiently, we still give our patients personal attention and get to know each one, meeting their individual needs. Our staff members are friendly, welcoming, and eager to make your visit with us as seamless and painless as possible.
Has it been more than six months since your last checkup and cleaning? That means it’s time to come see us, so be sure to make an appointment today.
