Archive for November 2020

Regular dental exams and cleanings are vital components of preventive dentistry, a field dedicated to the prevention of the onset and progression of dental disease. If you haven’t had your teeth professionally cleaned or your mouth examined lately, we, at Hebron Family Dentistry, urge you to visit our Hebron, KY office for the quality preventive care you need to maintain long-term healthy smiles!

How Often Should You Schedule Your Regular Cleanings and Dental Visits?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling your dental visits at intervals determined by your dentist. Most of our patients with healthy teeth and gums require preventive dental visits every six months, while patients with gum disease or are at a higher risk of tooth decay may need more frequent preventive care.

Why Are Regular Cleanings and Dental Visits Necessary?

We cannot understate the critical role routine dental care plays in maintaining your optimal oral health. Professional cleanings dramatically decrease the risk of developing tooth decay, cavities, and bad breath (halitosis). They also help prevent periodontal (gum) disease, the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Dental exams, on the other hand, allow your trusted team at Hebron Family Dentistry to identify any condition in the earliest stages when most treatable, preventing the need for costly and involved treatments down the road.

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is not only important to your oral health but also impacts your overall health. Studies show a connection between periodontal disease and a host of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. 

What Happens During Your Visit?

During your appointment, we will evaluate every aspect of your oral health. A physical exam and x-rays will help uncover any underlying concerns, including early tooth decay, chips, cracks, infections, or bone loss, to name a few. 

Your visit will also include professional dental cleaning, during which our hygienist will remove any plaque or tartar buildup from around your gum line and between your teeth, then use a gritty polisher to remove any plaque or tartar left behind. The last step is professional flossing to ensure that no plaque or tartar remain between your teeth. 

Oral Hygiene Practices at Home

Caring for your teeth at home is another critical component of prevention. We encourage you to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque and prevent it from hardening to tartar, which only a professional dental cleaning can remove. 

Quality Preventive Dentistry Near Me

Dr. Watson and her outstanding team at Hebron Family Dentistry in Hebron, KY, invite you to schedule your routine dental exam and cleaning. Together, we will ensure your smile stays healthy for many years to come! Call us today!