A thorough dental exam and cleaning should be performed every six months. Most dental cleanings are performed by a dental hygienist. Plaque can be removed at home during brushing, but tartar buildup can only be removed by a dental professional. However prior to the cleaning, there will be an examination of your mouth. This will include the use of a small mirror to check your teeth and gums for signs of gingivitis or any other potential issues.
We follow that up with a thorough cleaning using an electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste. This will gently scrub your teeth to remove any remaining debris. This dental polishing is safe to be done twice a year by a dental professional, but it is important to be gentler on your teeth at home, otherwise you could wear down your enamel.
Finally, we will floss and rinse your teeth. We are experts at flossing and can get into even those hard to reach places to leave your mouth feeling as clean as possible. Rinsing will remove any debris that is left over from the cleaning.
Routine Checkup and Cleaning Every 6 Months
Every Six Months
It is important to have a professional cleaning to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums, and an exam can spot and treat any issues before they can turn into big problems.
Remove Tartar Buildup
A scaler will be used to remove plaque and tartar buildup at the gumline and in between the teeth. Brush and floss regularly to avoid plaque buildup that harden into tartar.
Fluoride Treatment
Some patients may also benefit from a fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel of your teeth, helping to protect against decay.
We encourage patients to visit us at least every six months for a routine cleaning and exam. This gives us the opportunity to provide a thorough cleaning, as well as a comprehensive exam. By maintaining regular appointments, we can catch any issues that may be present and address them before they have a chance to become big problems.
Dental Cleaning FAQ
You will leave our office with a clean and refreshed smile. We’ll remove any plaque or tartar buildup, clean and polish your teeth to remove bacteria, and provide a fluoride treatment if needed for extra protection.
For those with healthy smiles, it is recommended to visit our office every six months for a routine exam and cleaning. If you have a history of periodontal disease or other oral health issue, more recommend more frequent visits.
Brush in the morning and at night, or after each meal if possible. Floss daily and rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste when brushing. Change out your toothbrush every two to three months and avoid brushing too vigorously. This can cause tooth sensitivity and bleeding gums.
Our mouths are full of bacteria – some of which is helpful, but some of which can be damaging to our smiles. When these bacteria accumulate and mixes with debris from food and drink, dangerous acid can form that can eat away at the enamel of our teeth. This can lead to decay, but also gum disease and staining. Tooth loss and other oral diseases can occur if these issues aren’t taken care of.
What services does a dentist in Fitchburg MA offer?
SmileCare Dental of Fitchburg provides comprehensive dental services including professional cleanings, dental exams, cosmetic dentistry, restorative treatments, and preventive care. Our Fitchburg dental office is equipped with modern technology to address all your oral health needs in one convenient location. Whether you need a routine checkup or more complex dental work, our experienced team is here to help.
How often should I visit my dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for professional exams and cleanings. However, patients with gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may need to schedule more frequent appointments. Our team at SmileCare Dental will assess your individual oral health and recommend a personalized visit schedule during your exam.
Is it normal to feel anxious about dental visits?
Yes, dental anxiety is very common, and we understand your concerns. The experienced dentists and compassionate staff at SmileCare Dental in Fitchburg work with nervous patients every day using gentle techniques and clear communication. We encourage you to discuss your fears with us so we can create a comfortable treatment plan that works for you.
What should I expect during a dental cleaning and exam?
During your visit to our Fitchburg dental office, we'll perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, take X-rays if needed, and professionally clean your teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Our dentist will discuss any findings with you and recommend preventive or treatment options. The entire process typically takes 45 minutes to an hour and helps maintain your oral health.
How can I maintain healthy teeth between dental visits?
Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and limit sugary foods and drinks to protect your smile. Regular visits to SmileCare Dental ensure that any problems are caught early before they become more serious. Our Fitchburg team also provides personalized oral hygiene tips during your appointments to keep your teeth healthy year-round.
