Dental Exams & Cleanings in Berlin, CT

Why Dental Exams and Cleanings are Important

Routine dental exams and professional cleanings are the cornerstone of preventive dentistry. Regular visits allow Dr. Maroon and Dr. Abbott to monitor your oral health, identify potential issues early, and provide the care you need to maintain a healthy smile. Here’s why dental exams and cleanings are essential:

• Prevention of Cavities: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar, preventing the buildup that can lead to cavities.
• Early Detection of Gum Disease: Regular exams help detect early signs of gum disease, such as gingivitis, allowing for timely treatment to prevent progression.
• Oral Cancer Screenings: As part of your exam, we perform screenings for oral cancer, ensuring any potential issues are identified early for the best outcome.
• Overall Health Connection: Oral health is closely linked to your overall health. Dental exams can help spot signs of systemic health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease.

The Dental Exam Process at Advanced Dental

When you visit Advanced Dental for your routine exam, you can expect a thorough and comfortable experience. Here’s what typically happens during a dental exam:

1. Medical History Review: We start by reviewing your medical history to ensure we are aware of any changes in your health or medications.
2. Digital X-Rays: X-rays are often taken to provide a detailed look at your teeth and jawbone, helping us detect cavities, bone loss, or other hidden issues.
3. Oral Cancer Screening: We perform an oral cancer screening to check for any unusual signs, such as lumps, sores, or discoloration.
4. Gum Health Evaluation: We assess your gums for signs of gum disease, such as swelling, bleeding, or recession.
5. Tooth Examination: Dr. Maroon or Dr. Abbott will examine each tooth for signs of decay, damage, or wear.
6. Discussion and Recommendations: After your exam, we’ll discuss any findings with you and recommend next steps, such as treatment options or preventive care.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

Professional teeth cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are a vital part of maintaining oral health. Even with regular brushing and flossing, it’s difficult to remove all plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Here’s what happens during a professional cleaning at Advanced Dental:

1. Tartar Removal: Our hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, especially around the gumline.
2. Polishing: After the tartar is removed, your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and give your smile a clean, smooth finish.
3. Flossing: We’ll finish by flossing between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and ensure your gums stay healthy.
4. Fluoride Treatment (Optional): Depending on your needs, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities.