Preventative Care in Hewitt, TX
Routine Cleanings for a Healthy Smile
One of the most important aspects of maintaining a healthy smile is visiting our office at least twice a year for routine cleanings. During these visits, one of our hygienists will clean and polish your teeth, removing harmful bacteria to protect you from cavities and gum disease.
These appointments also allow one of our dentists to examine your smile and identify any issues that could potentially threaten your health. By visiting us every six months, you can stay on top of any dental issues and ensure they aren’t able to develop too far.
Explore our guide to learn what else to expect during a routine cleaning.
X-Rays
We’ll begin your appointment by taking x-rays of your entire mouth. This allows us to detect problems that may not be visible to the naked eye, such as cavities or impacted wisdom teeth.
If we find anything concerning, one of our dentists will address it immediately with an appropriate treatment solution.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer is a deadly disease that claims the lives of roughly 8,000 Americans every year. That’s why we include oral cancer screenings as part of our routine cleanings. By checking every six months, we can ensure the disease doesn’t have time to spread far.
If we identify any possible signs of oral cancer, your dentist will take a tissue sample and get it examined right away. In the event that you receive a positive diagnosis, we’ll refer you to trusted specialists and help make sure you get the treatment you need.
Benefits of Preventative Dentistry
Regular hygiene appointments offer several benefits, including:
- Decreases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Allows you to identify severe problems early, such as oral cancer
- Keeps your smile fresh and sparkling
- Gives you an opportunity to discuss any issues with your dentist
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
The American Dental Association (ADA) advises getting your teeth cleaned at least twice a year. During these visits, your dentist can use specialized tools to remove bacteria from parts of your mouth that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss. They can also examine your teeth for indications of any serious health issues, such as cavities or oral cancer.
Can I keep my teeth healthy with brushing and flossing at home?
Brushing and flossing every day is a crucial part of keeping your teeth healthy. However, you still need to visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. Even if you have excellent oral hygiene, bacteria can build up in deep corners of your mouth that are hard to reach with a toothbrush. Not to mention, you may not notice signs of health conditions such as gum disease or oral cancer.
For all these reasons, make sure not to skip your regular dental visits.
How long are teeth cleaning appointments?
The length of a teeth cleaning appointment can vary depending on the patient. Generally speaking, we’ll complete your treatment in 30 minutes to an hour. However, some patients have more plaque and tartar to remove from their teeth than others, which can lead to longer appointments. If any decay, infections, or other issues are found, this can extend your appointment longer as well.
Visit Central Texas Dental Care for Routine Cleanings
If you want to maintain a healthy smile, don’t skip out on your regular dental checkups. By visiting our office just twice a year and practicing effective oral care at home, you can enjoy a stunning smile for many years to come.
Call our office in Hewitt at (254) 666-1686 and schedule a consultation today. We look forward to meeting you.
