Dental Exam and Cleaning
United Dental clinic in Lowell provides in-depth, comprehensive dental exam and cleaning. Our team of professionals will provide you with a detailed consultation and organize high-level dental exam and cleaning services.
Dental exams are an essential part of preventative dentistry. As most oral health problems are generally preventable, it's crucial to have dental exams and x-rays from time to time. In this way, you can stop early with dental problems while they are smaller and more affordable to treat.
Comprehensive Dental Exam
Dental Exams Analyze More Than Your Teeth
A typical dental exam covers the following areas:
● X-Rays. The best way to detect bone loss, cysts, decay, and tumors. They also help to understand the positions of your teeth and roots.
● Examination of all existing restorations. If you have fillings, crowns, or other restorative work, then our specialists will take a look to know if everything's in good shape and note if any repairs or replacements are needed.
● Oral cancer screening. Our professionals will examine your face, tongue, throat, gums, neck, tissues, and lips to see if there is any sign of oral cancer.
● Tooth decay examination. United Dental will check every tooth surface with the help of professional dental instruments to find out if there's any decay.
● Screening for gum disease. We will examine your gums and the bones around your teeth to check if there are any symptoms of periodontal disease.
Your dental exam may also include additional steps if you have had a specific type of oral health issue or if you are in pain during your visit.
What to expect during a dental cleaning?
Generally, dental cleaning is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist.
A typical dental cleaning includes:
● Plaque Removing.
Many of us don't know that plaque is a living colony of bacteria. It develops if it's not removed by food debris on the surface of your teeth. It produces toxins that can then affect your gums, which is the cause of periodontal disease. Plaque is almost invisible and sticky, making it difficult or even impossible to remove it without a professional dental cleaning.
● Tartar Removing.
Tartar is both above and below the gum lines, and it can only be removed by professional dental instruments. Actually, the tarter is the hardened plaque that was not removed and has attached itself to the tooth.
● Teeth polishing.
The final step is generally teeth polishing. During this step, your dental hygienist will get rid of plaque and stains using professional dental equipment.
Some kinds of tartar and plaque are impossible to remove during your typical tooth brushing and flossing routine. So, it is preferable to have a dental hygienist exam twice a year.
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning and Exam Take?
Usually, a dental comprehensive exam and cleaning appointment can last around 45-60 minutes. For a child, dental exams and cleanings are shorter. The appointment's length mainly depends on the patient's age, frequency of regular dental exams, and dental health.
How Often Should One Get a Dental Exam?
People with healthy gums and teeth are encouraged to visit a dental hygienist depending on your needs. A periodic dental exam is typically done yearly but can differ depending on some factors. In case if you have continual dental health issues, your dentist may ask for more frequent dental care appointments