Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Dallas, TX

Many people in the DFW metroplex who consistently brush and floss their teeth assume their mouth is healthy, but that’s not always true. It’s possible to develop hidden issues in places that are hard to see, like between your teeth, behind your molars, or below the surface of your gums.

Thankfully, our Bear Creek Family Dentistry team provides routine maintenance to preserve your smile during standard dental checkups and cleanings. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect at your appointment, and feel free to contact us for additional information.

Why are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?

Dental concerns like tooth decay and gum disease often start small and can go unnoticed. Unfortunately, they don’t usually resolve themselves and tend to worsen until they’re treated. For instance, you may not realize you have a cavity between two teeth until you develop a toothache that requires a root canal.

The American Dental Association recommends seeing your oral healthcare provider every six months for a routine visit. Consistent visits enable us to monitor your dental condition, allowing us to catch and address potential problems before they have a chance to progress. Additionally, it enhances your oral health, allowing you to resist potential damage and disease. You’re less likely to have a dental emergency or require more costly and complex repairs as a result.

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup

It might vary somewhat based on your individual circumstances, but typically a dental checkup begins with updating your medical history to list any changes to avoid harming your general health. Then, we’ll conduct a visual examination of your teeth, gums, bite alignment, and any existing dental work, such as tooth-colored fillings or other restorations. Next, we’ll screen the tender tissues inside your mouth for early indicators of oral cancer to prevent this rare but potentially life-threatening condition.

We’ll also take X-rays annually to ensure nothing has developed beneath the surface of your gums. If we find any areas of concern, like cavities or periodontal problems, we’ll recommend appropriate treatments. Then, we’ll take the time to walk you through the details of your procedure and answer any questions you may have about your dental condition and any necessary services.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

After we’ve examined your mouth, we’ll provide a professional cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that cause many common oral issues. First, we’ll use special instruments to gently remove any buildup from your enamel, between your teeth, and along your gums. This reduces your vulnerability to tooth decay, periodontal problems, and chronic bad breath (halitosis).

We’ll also carefully floss your teeth, cleaning deeply into the pockets of your gums to remove unwanted germs and residue. Finally, we’ll polish your teeth to remove more recent surface stains to complete your appointment.