Practicing good oral hygiene involves maintaining your smile with professional dental cleanings. Regular dental visits give you healthy gums, clean teeth and the chance to talk with your hygienist and dentist about any questions you may have.

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Your cleaning and appointment will include the following:

• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

The complete dental exam includes:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radio-graphs): X-rays are essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, bone loss and help determine tooth and root positions. The scheduling of X-ray for each patient is individualized at our office and will be determined by our hygienist and dentists.

• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

• Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

• Examination of tooth decay and existing restorations: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay, cracks, abrasions, erosions and fractures.