Cleaning And Check-Ups Specialist

How often should I schedule a dental cleaning and check-up?

For the healthiest and brightest smile, schedule twice-yearly appointments for dental check-ups and cleanings. Bi-annual appointments ensure that Dr. Williams is able to detect and treat issues like:

• Plaque and tartar buildup 
• Cavities 
• Gingivitis and gum disease
• Tooth stains

At your bi-annual dental appointments, she can also detect early signs of cancer.

What happens during a dental check-up?

The dental check-up is the first part of a regular dental appointment. During a check-up, Dr. Williams inspects your teeth for cavities, either alone with her tools, or with the assistance of X-rays. X-rays help her detect cavities in-between teeth.

After that, she checks for plaque, a sticky, clear layer of bacteria that hardens and turns into tartar if you let it sit. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to oral diseases, and you can’t remove tartar with regular flossing and brushing, so this detail of your visit is very important.

Next, Dr. Williams examines your gums using a special tool that measures by depth the space between your gums and teeth. If she finds that these spaces are shallow, your gums are likely healthy. If the spaces are deep, you may be suffering from gum disease.

Finally, Dr. Williams inspects your neck, throat, face, and head for redness, swelling, and signs of cancer.

What does a dental cleaning involve?

To perform your dental cleaning, Dr. Williams takes to your teeth using a small mirror and a scaler tool. The mirror helps her see inside your mouth, and the scaler helps her scrape away plaque and tartar.

Once she removes any plaque and tartar, Dr. Williams deep cleans and polishes your teeth using a gritty toothpaste and a high-powered toothbrush.

After your polishing, she flosses in-between your teeth. This gives her the opportunity to not only access hard-to-floss spots, but also find any problem areas where your gums are prone to bleeding.

Finally, she rinses your mouth with liquid fluoride and applies a fluoride treatment directly to your teeth if needed to protect your teeth from cavity infiltration for several months.

Prioritize your oral health and the oral health of your family. If you or your loved one is due for a tooth cleaning and check-up, schedule an appointment with Claire V. Williams, DMD. To get started, reach out online or over the phone today.