Dental consultations and cleanings are important preventative dentistry measures taken to maintain your oral health. Since they are so important to the health of your smile, the Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your North Vancouver dental office at least twice a year for a consultation and cleaning. This allows your dentist to closely monitor your oral health, as well as to prevent or treat potential dental issues before they can progress into larger problems. Additionally, regular teeth cleanings help to reduce your risk of developing common dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a teeth cleaning and dental exam?

Yes, everyone is encouraged to visit their local dental office every six months for a cleaning and exam. Depending on your oral health, your dentist may then recommend more frequent visits. Professional teeth cleanings are highly important because they remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your mouth. This reduces the risk of you developing tooth decay or gum disease. Dental exams are also important because they allow your dentist to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. If it has been more than six months since you visited the dentist, schedule a consultation with your North Vancouver dentist today. 

What happens during a dental exam?

During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums. They will likely use a slender metal tool called an explorer probe, as well as a dental mirror and light. As they examine the inside of your mouth, they will look for signs of tooth decay, damage, or any inconsistencies with the surrounding soft tissues. They will also check your gums for signs of redness, bleeding, or gum recession. In some cases, they may even measure your gum pockets. 

In addition to evaluating the inside of your mouth, they will also take dental x-rays to evaluate the underlying bone structure. During dental x-rays, you will be asked to bite down on plastic and hold your mouth in specific positions. Your dentist will then use these x-rays to determine if you have any cavities that are not immediately visible. Dental x-rays are also used to locate wisdom teeth, plan for treatments such as orthodontics or dental implants, and to make sure the jawbone is healthy. 

What happens during a teeth cleaning?

During a teeth cleaning, a dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. In some cases, a metal tool called a dental scaler is used, while in other cases, something resembling a high-pressure waterpik is used. The hygienist will clean the entire front and back surface with this tool to remove large pieces of debris. The teeth are then brushed with a gritty toothpaste, flossed, and rinsed to remove any smaller pieces of debris. The final step is to apply fluoride to the teeth to strengthen the enamel and prevent future plaque accumulation.