If you think you’ve got the whole brushing and flossing thing down and skipping out on 6-month cleanings and checkups isn’t necessary — think again! Maintaining great oral health is built on preventing the diseases and damage that can crop up over time. Your Norwalk dentist wants to help you stay ahead of the game by averting problems before they have a chance to take hold. At Sommers Dentistry, Dr. Norman Sommers and Dr. Adam Sommers strive to provide the latest technology and trusted care that will help you having lasting oral health and a dazzling smile you can feel proud of.

What Happens At A Regular Dental Visit?

Checking your teeth for tooth decay is only one part of a thorough dental examination, but it is one of the most familiar. Specific attention to plaque and tartar is highlighted because plaque and tartar can build up in a very short time if good oral hygiene is not practiced between visits. Food, beverages and tobacco can stain teeth as well. If not removed, soft plaque can harden on the teeth and irritate the gum tissue, which may eventually lead to gum disease. Along with checking for tartar and plaque, your dentist will also examine your gums, mouth, tongue and throat.

Head And Neck Examination

Your dentist will start off by examining the following parts to find out if there is anything out of the ordinary:

• Examining your face
• Examining your neck
• Checking your lymph nodes
• Checking your lower jaw joints (TJMs)

Clinical Dental Examination

Next, your dentist will assess the state of your teeth and gums by:

• Examining the gums
• Looking for early signs of gum disease
• Oral Cancer Screening
• Checking for loose teeth
• Looking at the tissues inside of your mouth
• Examining your tongue
• Checking your bite
• Looking for visual evidence of tooth decay
• Checking for broken teeth
• Checking for damaged fillings
• Evaluating any dental restorations you may have
• Checking the contact between your teeth
• Taking X-rays

Dental Cleaning

During the final part of the regular visit, your teeth are professionally cleaned using these methods:

• Checking for the cleanliness of your teeth and gums
• Removing existing plaque and tartar
• Polishing your teeth
• Flossing between your teeth
• Reviewing recommended brushing and flossing techniques

After your examination is complete, you will be given a review of the health of your teeth and gums along with any additional recommendations.

5 Benefits of Regular Dentist Visits

Here are a few of the benefits that good oral hygiene and regular checkups provide:

• The prevention of cavities
• The prevention of tooth loss due to gum disease
• A whiter and brighter smile, particularly if you are a smoker or coffee drinker
• Keep your breath fresh and prevent persistent bad breath
• Give a boost to your overall health

Questions?

You can see why it is so important to you see your dentist in Norwalk every six months to receive your routine examination and cleaning. Remember, by seeing your dentist on a regular basis and following daily oral hygiene practices at home, you are more likely to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you have any questions or are interested in a consultation, please call our office today.