Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Nashville, TN

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that everyone visits their dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. These routine appointments are important; in fact, they can establish the foundation of a healthy smile that lasts for decades. Why is regular preventive dental care so important, and what can you expect when you attend checkups and cleanings with our Nashville dental team? Continue reading below to find out.

Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?

If your mouth feels fine and you have a good routine of brushing and flossing your teeth, it might be easy to dismiss the importance of regular checkups and cleanings. However, even if you have excellent habits, these appointments can still be highly beneficial in a number of ways:

• Early detection of dental problems can prevent major treatments. Some dental problems are sneaky — they might not cause any problems until they are fairly advanced. A thorough exam can catch such problems and may help you to avoid the need for extensive treatment in the future.
• You can get personalized advice. Our team can coach you on oral hygiene and recommend products that are tailored to your unique needs.
• You may prevent a dental emergency. Dental cleanings can remove stubborn plaque and tartar, which can prevent these substances from causing serious infections. Exams can catch dental issues well before they lead to an urgent and painful emergency.

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup

During the checkup portion of your appointment, our team may:

• Take some X-rays. For most people, one set of X-rays each year is adequate.
• Perform a visual examination of your mouth. We will look for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
• Screen you for oral cancer. If we see any unusual growths, we can help you arrange for further testing.
• Recommend a treatment plan. If our examination reveals cavities or other issues, we will recommend a plan to get your oral health back on track.
• Review your medical history. Some medical conditions could have a big impact on your oral health, so you should inform us if you have been diagnosed with any chronic illnesses.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

During the cleaning portion of your appointment, your hygienist will:

• Remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. Our team uses special instruments to remove these biofilms from your tooth enamel. You might feel some slight pressure during this process.
• Floss your teeth. This helps to remove plaque and debris that might be stuck between your teeth.
• Polish your teeth. The polishing process can remove surface stains and leave you with a fresh and confident smile.
• Offer advice. Hygienists are treasure troves of information! Our team might advise you to adjust the techniques you use at home to clean your teeth.