A visit with your dentist for a checkup and cleaning may seem minor, but this preventive visit is essential for keeping smiles of all ages healthy and strong. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist is discussing the benefits of a checkup visit, and explaining why you need one at least once every six months!

The Checkup

When you and your family see us for a checkup, our team has an opportunity to take a close look at your smile. With the latest in digital imaging technology, we will x-ray and examine your smile to look for areas of concern. The earlier we diagnose these issues, the sooner we can administer treatment. Our team often watches for cavities, infections, gingivitis, and gum disease. For adults, we also look for TMJ disorder and bruxism, and will screen for oral cancer. We also make sure your child’s teeth are falling out and erupting as they should, assessing the risk of misalignment. Since these issues take time to develop, a visit every six months means we often diagnose and treat them before you even experience uncomfortable symptoms. 

Cleaning Your Teeth

During the same visit, our team will also begin the process of cleaning the teeth. A dental cleaning accomplishes what brushing and flossing alone cannot, the complete removal of all plaque and tartar buildup. Doing this helps lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, while also fighting bad breath and even teeth stains. We gently remove the buildup with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. We then polish the teeth thoroughly. A cleaning helps everyone ages two and older!

Periodontal Cleanings 

If you have severe buildup and symptoms of gum disease, such as sore, bleeding gums that appear redder than normal, we may recommend a scaling and root planing. Known as a deep cleaning, this removes buildup from the teeth and the roots, reversing gingivitis and helping us manage gum disease to avoid tooth loss and other complications. The process could take one visit or up to four, depending on the severity of your buildup.

If you have any questions about how we help keep smiles of all ages strong and bright with preventive care, then contact our team today to learn more or to schedule your next visit. We would love to make 2022 the year you and your family obtain your best and brightest smiles!

Visit Your Kansas City, MO, Dentist Today

If you have any questions about our approach to preventive dentistry, then please contact your Kansa City, MO, dentist, Dr. Tabakh, by calling (816) 942-7669. We look forward to seeing you and helping your family enjoy better smiles!