Dental Exams & Teeth Cleaning in Chesapeake, VA

Our dentist can identify small problems before they become major problems, which are more expensive to treat. We know that some of our new patients are concerned about what happens during a dental exam, so here are the basic steps:

• We’ll want to know your medical history, including any medications that you take.
• Our hygienist will clean your teeth.
• Our dentist will look into your mouth, evaluating your teeth and gums.
• X-rays are taken so our dentist can look for any problems inside your teeth and gums.
• Our dentist will look for evidence of gum disease, teeth grinding and oral cancer.
• We’ll answer your questions and remind you about daily oral hygiene practices.
• You’ll schedule your next dental exam, and during the next six months you can write down any additional questions to ask our dentist on your next visit.

Don’t worry, if you haven’t been to the dentist in years, we are not going to lecture you. Call us to schedule your appointment for a dental exam and cleaning with our understanding dental team today.

Why is a Dental Teeth Cleaning Important?

A dental cleaning freshens your breath and brightens your smile, which is nice, but these are not the reasons that a professional cleaning is so important. A dental cleaning helps prevent decay (cavities) by removing the hardened plaque that brushing and flossing cannot dislodge. A dental cleaning also helps prevent gum disease, or periodontal disease, a major cause of tooth loss, by removing tartar (hardened plaque).

Why Should I Listen When My Dentist Says I Have Gingivitis?

Gum disease (periodontal disease) starts as gingivitis, which is when your gums swell or bleed when you brush them. A buildup of plaque on your teeth causes gingivitis, which is why regular dental cleanings are so important. Gingivitis is the only form of gum disease that is reversible.

If you have more advanced gum disease, our dentist may suggest a deep cleaning as gum disease treatment. Deep cleanings remove plaque and food trapped under under the gums. You’ll want to follow all your dentist’s recommendations for periodontal treatment to reverse or halt gum disease because, eventually, the disease will loosen your teeth, and then they will eventually fall out or have to be extracted.

Can a Dentist Help Me with Persistent Bad Breath?

If brushing and flossing isn’t working, try gently brushing your tongue as well. Using a mouth rinse will help mask odors and kill the bacteria caused by eating onions and garlic. If your bad breath persists, visit our dentist to rule out tooth decay as the cause. Our dentist can recommend special treatments, along with suggesting specific OTC products as a bad breath cure.

When Should I Start Getting Screened for Oral Cancer?

Our dentist does an oral cancer screening on all patients 18 and older once a year during their regular dental exam. It’s quick and painless, and so important. When oral cancer is caught in its early stages, treatment is much more effective. People who smoke or chew tobacco are not the only ones at risk; the HPV virus and heavy alcohol use also contribute to oral cancer. In some cases, people who have no risk factors at all get oral cancer.

If you are ready to schedule your dental exam in Chesapeake with a practice that has affordable rates and a comfortable environment, call us to arrange a convenient day and time.