The Importance of a Dental Exam and Cleaning

When was the last time you visited the dentist for a dental exam and cleaning? Many people visit the dentist each year, but they don’t know that the American Dental Association (ADA) and Dr. Varley recommend a dental exam and cleaning at least every 6 months to keep the mouth healthy.  In fact, “The frequency of their regular dental visits should be tailored by their dentists to accommodate for their current oral health status and health history,” says the ADA. Some patients will need more frequent exams and cleanings than others.

The dental exam and cleaning is incredibly important for avoiding tooth decay, gum disease, and major problems that require more extensive procedures for healing. If it has been awhile since your dental exam and cleaning, find out why you should set your appointment today!

You Can’t See What We Can See

Tooth decay is remarkably stealthy. As a matter of fact, gum disease is a painless process–until it’s not and that is when it is too late to reverse irreparable damage.

A dental exam and cleaning allows Dr. Varley to get both an interior (digital x-ray, intraoral camera) view of your teeth and an exterior view. Many areas of your gums and teeth are simply out of sight for you, but easily viewed by your dentist or digital x-ray examiner. A visit to Stonebrook Family Dental can help you keep your mouth healthy and devoid of problems.

Dental Exams Assess More Than Your Teeth

You may be surprised by all that Dr. Varley examines during his clinical in-office dental exam. He isn’t just looking for cavities. A typical dental exam will cover the following areas:

• Evaluating the gums
• Probing for signs of gum disease
• Looking for loose teeth
• Examining the  tissues inside of your mouth
• Assessing the health of your tongue
• Measuring your bite (occlusion)
• Noting any visual evidence of tooth decay
• Seeing if you have any broken teeth
• Investigating damage to fillings
• Inspecting any dental appliance you have
• Taking Digital X-rays

As you can see, a dental exam covers much more than one would initially think.There is much more that goes on inside that mouth of yours! Dr. Varley will also look for evidence of tooth grinding or problems with the temporomandibular joint (which connects the lower jaw to the skull). He will also examine your neck, lymph glands, palate, and the soft tissues of your mouth (cheeks, tongue, lips, and floor of the mouth) for signs of infection or oral cancer.

Oral cancer screenings are a routine part of each checkup to make sure your mouth is free of any lesions or areas of concern. While oral cancer is extremely rare, it can progress very quickly and is a very deadly. Because early detection of oral cancer is important, you may also want to perform a monthly self-exam–particularly if you are at high risk.

Early Cavity Detection

One of the best reasons to visit Dr. Varley at the regular, advised intervals is for early cavity detection.  New technology is allowing dentists to find cavities when they are in their smallest stages to help you avoid the dentist drill and lost enamel. Small cavities can be treated without shots or drills whereas large cavities can create more work and and more permanent damage to your teeth–teeth that you need to last a lifetime!

Plaque Removal with High Tech Tools

Plaque and tartar buildup happens to everyone and just can’t be removed with your toothbrush alone. Good oral hygiene helps you avoid excessive build up, but, still, your dentist will need to use his in-office tools to remove soft plaque that, if left to fester, will harden on your teeth and irritate gum tissue. Ignore this plaque and tartar and you will be facing a tough opponent–gum disease.

During your dental exam, Dr. Varley will  check for gum swelling and redness and will measure the depth of your gingival pockets. Swelling, redness, and deep pockets are all signs of gum disease. Untreated gum disease leads to its more serious form–periodontal disease–and eventual tooth loss.

Dental Cleaning

One of the most important parts of the dental checkup will be a thorough cleaning of your teeth, gums and mouth. In the absence of gum disease (inflammation), a regular adult cleaning is provided. If gum disease is present, a deeper cleaning of the gums may be needed.

Routine checkups are usually recommended every 6 months to ensure you are healthy.  Dental cleanings include:

• Checking the cleanliness of your teeth and gums
• Removing any plaque and tartar
• Polishing your teeth
• Flossing between your teeth
• Reviewing recommended brushing and flossing techniques
• Fluoride treatment to fortify tooth enamel against decay

Call to Schedule a Dental Exam and Cleaning Today

Dr. Varley has many years of dental experience and is very efficient at the diagnosis of oral diseases and conditions. The staff at Stonebrook Family Dental is trained to answer any questions you may have. Our office is conveniently located in Aurora, CO and also serves surrounding areas such as Centennial, Foxfield, and Parker. Contact Stonebrook Family Dental in Aurora, CO today for an appointment at 303-872-7907.