Preventive Dental Hygiene
Oral Examinations
Ideally twice a year, every 9 months or yearly, you'll see your dentist for regular oral exams. This gives them the opportunity to identify any oral health problems and develop a plan to treat them accordingly.
During your exam, your dentist will closely check the health of your teeth, gums, bite and jaw. Exams may also include oral cancer screenings, dental X-rays and other diagnostic procedures.
Oral Cancer Screening
Any part of your mouth or surrounding tissues can be affected by oral cancer. During your exam, the dentist will assess your face, neck, lips, throat, tissues, gums and tongue for any signs of oral cancer that may be difficult to detect with the naked eye.
Oral Health Care at Home
Remember to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time to keep your smile healthy between dental appointments. Floss at least once daily.
Hygiene Cleaning
Before or after your exam, your dental hygienist will perform a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums to prevent and treat disease.
To start, they will use a scaler to remove any plaque and tartar buildup. If required, a polisher and coarse toothpaste will be used to remove any remaining stains or plaque, followed by a thorough flossing of your teeth and gums.
Fluoride Treatment
If you or your child has a high risk of tooth decay, your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that can help to rebuild the minerals in your tooth enamel to prevent or reverse tooth decay.