Dental Exams and Cleanings
Preventing Problems Before They Start
The health of your teeth and mouth is very important to the well-being of your entire body. While routine brushing and flossing at home is necessary to keep your smile looking its best, visiting Dr. Kassan for a comprehensive exam and cleaning is essential. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months when you have good dental health to ensure your teeth stay healthy and your smile stays beautiful. Some patients require they be seen every 3 or 4 times per year if they have more serious dental conditions that require they be monitored more closely.
By routinely seeing Dr. Kassan for exams and cleanings, you can:
- Prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath
- Save money by avoiding costly and extensive dental procedures
- Keep your teeth white by reducing staining from food and drinks
- Shorten the time spent in your dentist's office
- Have a smile that will last a lifetime
The Exam
During your exam, Dr. Kassan and your dental hygieneist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease and other health problems. He may also want to take X-rays to see what is happening in between your teeth and beneath the surface of your teeth and gums where he cannot see directly.The digital x-rays provided use a very low level of radiation and help Dr. Kassan diagnose dental issues not visible to the naked eye.
Professional Cleanings
Your dental hygienist will begin your cleaning by exploring the surface of your teeth to determine if you have any cavities and to examine the quality of existing fillings. The dental hygienist will then perform a periodontal exam to make sure your gums adhere tightly to your teeth, and no periodontal disease or bone loss may be occurring. She will also perform a thorough oral cancer screeing known as a head and neck exam.
Next, your hygienist will carefully clean your teeth with a variety of specialy designed instruments to remove any hard mineral buildup (tartar) from your teeth. Then your hygienist will floss your teeth, use a polishing compound, and apply fluoride. Cleanings usually aren't painful, but if you have any anxiety about your dental exam, be sure to let your hygienist know. The hygienist will asses your oral hygiene and will talk to you about changing your brushing or flossing habits if there is a need. In severe cases, they may recommend a "deep cleanig" known as scaling and root planing or other dental treatments. If your teeth and gums appear to be healthy, Dr. Kassan will probably recommend that you continue your brushing and flossing routine as usual.
