THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE DENTAL CLEANING SERVICES AND EXAMINATIONS FOR HEALTHY SMILES

The best method of treatment to avoid the development of dental issues is the routine examination and dental cleaning. Although patients in the Carrollton, TX area may brush and floss their teeth every day, it is still important to visit the dentist at least every six months for an examination and to have a thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums done. Routine dental cleaning services and evaluations are the most proactive method of preventative dental care. Drs. Adnan Saleem, Cameron Hamidi, and Blanca Lemus encourage patients to schedule an appointment at Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics to get started in monitoring their oral health and wellness for life.

WHAT CAN ROUTINE EXAMINATIONS AND CLEANINGS ACCOMPLISH?

Even patients who are extremely thorough with brushing and flossing may still have plaque and tartar on hard-to-reach places. Food particles can become stuck between the teeth and calcification may occur in the mouth due to poor brushing or flossing habits. By undergoing a routine dental cleaning, patients will be able to enjoy a thorough treatment that eliminates all plaque and tartar with the care and attention of our dental hygienists at Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics. An examination may include x-rays and is often done at the same time. This evaluation is best for avoiding problems such as dental caries (cavities), periodontal disease, bone loss, sensitive teeth, and toothaches. Prevention of these issues is also much less expensive than the reactive approach of having dental work done only when problems occur.

HOW ARE CLEANINGS PERFORMED?

Dental cleanings are often done in conjunction with a comprehensive oral examination during a recall visit to the dentist. These recall visits should be done every six months. A cleaning is performed, and the hygienist and dentist evaluate the teeth. The routine cleaning is called prophylaxis. Patients who have been diagnosed with conditions such as gum disease may undergo a more invasive cleaning which is known as deep cleaning, or even scaling and root planing.

Cleanings are performed with a special ultrasonic scaler that helps in removing calculus, plaque, and other debris from along the gum line and between the teeth. This may also be done with a hand scaler if patients desire, or if they are experiencing sensitivity with the ultrasonic device. Once cleaning is complete, the teeth are polished with prophy paste. Each tooth is given individual attention. Then, our dental hygienist will floss the teeth and can use this time to also educate patients on how to properly floss at home.

If there are any concerns found during the evaluation, they may be addressed as well. This includes more intensive cleaning if issues such as periodontal disease have been diagnosed, or the treatment of cavities with fillings during the same appointment if patients desire. If problems are found, patients also have the option of scheduling a separate appointment from their cleaning and examination if they choose.

ARE DENTAL CLEANINGS COVERED BY DENTAL INSURANCE?

In many cases, traditional dental insurance plans provide coverage for cleanings and examinations done every six months. If you have a current dental insurance plan, we encourage you to bring your card with you to your appointment, so our front office team can determine if you have available benefits that can be applied to the cost of your visit. We want to make sure that you take full advantage of the benefits available through your dental insurance plan to reduce or eliminate the cost of these routine visits. We want to maximize your benefits while reducing any out of pocket expenses for our patients whenever possible!

WHERE CAN I GET A ROUTINE DENTAL CLEANING AND EXAMINATION?

Drs. Adnan Saleem, Cameron Hamidi, and Blanca Lemus of Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics in Carrollton, TX provide a variety of general, cosmetic, and restorative services, including dental cleanings and examinations. If you are seeking a new dental team to take care of your smile, we recommend calling our practice to book an appointment. We can be reached by phone at (972) 388-3320 and are conveniently located in Suite 124 at 1745 East Hebron Parkway. We welcome new patients into our facility for comprehensive dental care.

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