Front Royal Dental Care
Cosmetic & General Dentistry located in Front Royal, VA
Dental cleanings are an integral part of good oral health care. Patients at Front Royal Dental Care in Front Royal, Virginia, are encouraged to schedule regular dental cleanings with Dr. Frederick Broadhead to keep their teeth healthy and beautiful. The dental care team can remove plaque and tartar, polish the teeth, and make sure the smile looks its best.
Dental Cleaning Q & A
What does the dental exam include?
At Front Royal Dental Care, a dental exam is part of every dental cleaning appointment. Before the dental cleaning, the dentist and dental hygienist will examine diagnostic X-rays to look for tooth decay, tumors, cysts, or evidence of bone loss in the jaw. X-rays are also used to determine tooth and root positioning. The surfaces of all teeth will be examined for signs of tooth decay, and any existing restorations like crowns or fillings will be examined to make sure they're fully functional.
Exams also include an oral cancer screening, which includes a check of the gums, mouth tissues, throat, tongue, lips, neck, and face for any indicators of cancer.
What does the dental cleaning include?
The dental cleanings at Front Royal Dental Care are typically performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist. The dental cleaning will begin with the removal of calculus, also known as tartar. Calculus is plaque that has hardened after being on the tooth for an extended period. Once plaque has hardened and become calculus, it's impossible for a person to remove on their own. Only specialized dental instruments can remove calculus, whether it's above or below the gums.
The hygienist will also remove any existing plaque. Plaque is virtually invisible, but it can cause serious problems for the mouth. Plaque is literally a small colony of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. This combines to inflame the gums, which is the first indicator of periodontal disease. Once the plaque and calculus have been removed, the teeth will be polished. Teeth polishing can remove stains that aren't removed during normal tooth brushing.
What is a deep dental cleaning?
For people who have advanced periodontal disease, a deep dental cleaning may be required. This type of cleaning is performed by the dentist while the patient is under anesthesia. A deep dental cleaning may include:
- Scaling of the teeth to remove calculus
- Root planing: The scaling of the teeth roots|
- Thorough cleaning below the gum line: A common collection place for calculus
While a deep dental cleaning is more complex than a standard one, it's often the best way for people dealing with serious periodontal disease to prevent further damage.