Exam 3 of 3: Importance of Dental Hygiene and Check-Ups

Continue reading to learn the importance of your dental hygiene and check-up appointments.

Dental Hygiene

Many people wonder why it is important to visit the dentist for their dental hygiene appointments when they already take care of their teeth at home with brushing and flossing. While of course it is crucial to keep up with your oral hygiene care at home, this does not exempt you from attending your professional hygiene appointments.

During your professional cleaning, your hygienist will remove any plaque or tartar that has accumulated on the teeth. These substances are essentially rock-hard accumulations of bacteria on the surface of the teeth that can not simply be removed with at-home brushing; they must be removed with the use of professional dental skills and tools. If plaque or tartar is allowed to accumulate on the teeth and is not removed, the tooth will face the risk of developing decay and diminished bone support.

Your hygienist will also conduct a thorough examination during your cleaning appointment, during which they will be able to diagnose any abnormalities. They will also be able to provide you with guidance and tips for better managing your oral health at home.

Check-Up Appointment

Your check-up appointment with your dentist is crucial for maintaining your oral health. During your check-up, your dentist will have x-rays taken of the teeth and conduct a thorough examination of both the x-rays and inside your mouth. They will use their findings to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help you manage your dental health.

During your check-up, your dentist will do the following:

• Examine x-rays for signs of decay or damage
• Examine x-rays for signs of bone recession
• Examine x-rays for signs of lesions or abnormalities
• Physically examine the inside of the mouth for signs of oral cancer or other abnormalities
• Physically check the teeth to ensure that they do not show any signs of decay or damage
• Check lymph nodes
• Conduct a periodontal examination in order to locate any signs of gum disease
• Create an extensive plan for your future dental treatment
• Provide you with instructions on caring for your teeth and gums at home

Ensuring that you return for your regularly-scheduled dental hygiene and check-up appointments is an important part of maintaining not only your oral health, but your overall health, as well; the health of your teeth has a direct impact on the rest of your body, and making sure that your teeth are as healthy as possible is a great way to keep your body healthy and happy. Attending your check-up and cleaning appointments are crucial for preventing bone loss, and decay. It is the best way to ensure that bacteria is not allowed to enter the body through the conditions of your mouth and affect your overall health.

Looking to get scheduled for your check-up and hygiene appointments in San Jose? Hoping to learn more about maintaining your oral health both at home and in the dental office? We’re here to help. Give us a call at Willow Glen Dental Center today!