Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Fort Worth, TX
Prevent Problems and Strengthen Your Smile
Even those who are committed to a consistent at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing twice daily can still develop dental concerns. This is partly because it can be difficult to catch the early signs of periodontal problems and tooth decay, as they often start small and go unnoticed, or develop in areas that are hard to see or reach by yourself at home. As a result, the American Dental Association recommends routine dental checkups and cleanings at least twice annually to prevent problems and strengthen your smile. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect from these routine appointments!
Why Choose Barr Family Dentistry for Dental Checkups & Cleanings?
- Member of the American Dental Association
- Patients of All Ages are Welcome
- Flexible Financing Available
Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?
It’s easy to think that your teeth and gums must surely be healthy if you haven’t seen any obvious areas of concern, and you might even wonder whether it’s necessary to schedule a routine dental appointment.
However, cavities and gum disease tend to start small and don’t always show noticeable symptoms until they have already begun to progress. Seeing our team regularly allows us to provide appropriate preventive services to support strong, healthy grins over time.
It’s also worth noting that many dental insurance companies cover up to 100% of standard services, like exams and cleanings, but only 50% to 80% of more complex and costly treatments needed to address issues that may arise. That means regular appointments can potentially preserve your oral health as well as your budget!
What to Expect During a Dental Checkup
It may vary slightly depending on your circumstances, but typically, we begin routine preventive visits with a visual examination of your mouth. We’ll look over your teeth, gums, bite alignment, and any existing dental work to detect any potential issues. We also screen the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of oral cancer to catch this dangerous condition early.
We will also take X-rays at least once every year to help determine whether any hidden concerns are developing beneath the surface. If we find any issues, we’ll propose an appropriate treatment plan and take the time to answer any questions you might have about your current condition, at-home oral hygiene habits, or suggested procedures.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
After we’ve wrapped up your exam, we’ll proceed with a professional cleaning to help remove even the most stubborn plaque and bacteria buildup. Our team will use specially designed dental instruments to clear any residue from your enamel and along your gumline to help avoid cavities and periodontal disease.
Then, we’ll floss between your teeth to keep germs from hiding beneath your connective tissues before polishing your enamel to remove more recent surface stains. We might also recommend topical fluoride treatment to help strengthen your enamel before sending you home with a sparkling clean smile!