Teeth Cleanings and Exams
The cleanings we provide aren’t only a great refresh, they also are imperative to maintain oral health.
Why are regular dental cleanings important?
Besides preventing cavities, gingivitis, or periodontitis, teeth cleanings also address inflammation that affects the whole body. When your gums are inflamed, your entire body, including your brain and heart, is also inflamed. This makes it very hard for your immune system to defend your body from future problems and maintain any issues you currently have. Dr. Baker does a thorough soft tissue and oral cancer screening during the dental examination. This screening can detect signs of disease in the early phases to ensure a higher chance of complete recovery.
What can I expect at a cleaning appointment?
Preventative cleaning is more than just cleaning; it involves a few assessments to ensure we give you the proper care you need. Details are not optional at Baker Dental, so we expect your full cooperation during these assessments, including:
- Blood pressure check
- Pre-procedural rinse with Crest Pro Health
- Review of health history at every appointment
- Periodontal probing depth evaluation
- Quick explorative examination of your teeth
- X-rays
- Intraoral photos
- Plaque and tartar removal with scalers
- Polishing
- Flossing
- Fluoride varnish
- Oral hygiene education and dental examination prep from your hygienist throughout the appointment
Will I be uncomfortable during my dental cleaning?
If your gums are in optimal health, your cleaning will not be uncomfortable at all. For apprehensive patients, we offer Oraquix numbing gel for $10. We do not offer nitrous oxide at our office as it causes spontaneous abortion, and we are an office full of women in our childbearing years.
How often should I schedule a preventative dental cleaning?
To ensure optimal health, the standard is to visit twice a year. However, Dr. Baker will say otherwise at the exam if he thinks you are a candidate to visit every nine months or even once a year.