Fear of the unknown is a big hindrance to any form of care. Unfortunately, that also goes for dentistry. So many patients make the effort of scheduling an appointment, only to come down with a case of cold feet.
I figured I’d start dispelling some of that mystery by talking about some of the procedures that happen every day in our office, starting with checkups and cleanings. Hopefully, you’ll see that there’s nothing to fear, and you’ll be ready to make an appointment and stick to it.
It Starts With a Conversation
Before anything touches your teeth, we talk. We’ll go over any changes since your last visit, discuss concerns you have, and talk about anything that’s bothering you. Doing this helps my team know what to pay closer attention to during the rest of your appointment.
Next Comes the Exam
If you’re a new patient, an exam can establish a baseline. I’ll check your gums, look for any early warning signs of dental problems, and look at your overall oral health before letting my hygienist start their work. Sometimes I’ll catch something at this stage that will require work before the actual cleaning, but most of the time, it’s the very next step.
Your Cleaning
Cleanings are broken down into several phases to make sure your teeth and gums are clean and healthy:
- Scaling: This is the part most people think of when they picture a dental cleaning. The hygienist uses a little hook called a scaler to remove plaque and tartar buildup along your gumline and between your teeth. It sounds intense, but for most patients with reasonably consistent home care, it’s quick and comfortable.
- Polishing: Afterward, we polish your teeth to smooth and remove stains on the surface. It’s a small thing, but patients often feel a noticeable difference.
- Flossing and Fluoride: Next, the hygienist flosses between your teeth. This removes plaque and food particles that might have been missed and helps to find spots where your gums might be tender. We may also apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel.
The Check-In at the End
Before you leave, we go over anything we noticed and make sure you understand if anything needs attention before your next routine visit. You will get scheduled on the books, and that’s it!
Sometimes the best way to take power away from the things we fear is simply to talk them out and understand them. No matter what, we are here to give you peace of mind and help you have a more comfortable time in our chair. That way, you get closer to the stronger teeth and gums you deserve.
About the Practice
Want to protect your smile? Our team at 21st Century Dental of Irving is dedicated to helping patients avoid oral health issues by offering effective preventive care. Led by compassionate dentists, we can spot red flags while they are minor and give you the prompt treatment you deserve. That way, your teeth and gums stay in great shape. If you are due for your next semi-annual visit, schedule an appointment or call our office at 972-255-3712.