What is a Dental Exam?
There are 2 main types of dental exams. The first is called a Comprehensive Exam - this is also known as a New Patient Exam and the purpose is to become an established patient with our office. A comprehensive exam includes all initial dental x-rays, assessments by our hygienist to determine the type of cleaning you will need as well as an extra-oral and intra-oral exam by Dr. Grace to evaluate for any abnormal pathologies or cavities you might have."
What is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is an important part of not only oral health, but also your whole body health. Dental cleanings allow us to remove plaque, bad bacteria, stains and calculus (also known as tartar) buildup from the teeth. The main purpose of a dental cleaning is to keep the gingiva (gum tissue), teeth and the supporting bone healthy in order to prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease. However, in addition, since routine cleanings help keep the bad bacteria out, this also helps reduce health problems associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, risk for cavities, etc.
Why is a Dental Exam Needed?
Without initial or routine dental exams, we would not be able to see you as a patient. By law, in order to provide any dental cleanings or dental treatment you must first have an exam done by the Dentist in-office. Dental exams allow Dr. Grace to accurately diagnose what type of dental treatment (if any) or dental cleaning is needed to return the teeth to a healthy condition.
Why is a Dental Cleaning Needed?
The main purpose of a dental cleaning is to keep the gingiva (gum tissue), teeth and the supporting bone healthy in order to prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease. In addition, since routine cleanings help keep the bad bacteria out, this also helps reduce health problems associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, risk for cavities, etc.
How Often Should I Have a Dental Exam and Dental Cleaning?
Every single member of your family is a good candidate for both exams and cleanings. In fact, we recommend bringing kids in for their first visit as soon as you notice their baby teeth erupting through the gums. From that point on, you and your family should make it a habit to come in to our Tyler, TX office every six months for a checkup visit. The checkup visit is crucial in keeping your smile healthy and bright.
How Often Should I Have a Dental Exam?
Routine dental exams should be done at least every 6 months to stay on top of your oral health and catch cavities or abnormal oral pathologies early.
How Often Should I Have a Dental Cleaning?
Routine dental cleanings are individualized for patient benefit. For patients who's oral health is classified as 'healthy' or 'gingivitis' - 6 month cleanings are enough. However, for patients who have Periodontal Disease (bone loss) - 3 month cleanings are necessary to aid in maintaining the bone level that supports the teeth. Without routine dental cleanings you are at risk for developing cavities, gingivitis or periodontal disease.