What is preventive dentistry?
Even with a perfect oral hygiene routine, it is still important to visit the dentist on a regular basis in Bay City, MI. Dental hygiene services are a form of preventive care that can save you the pain and expense of more extensive dental treatments later on. Dr. Matthew Ward and the dental specialists at Bay City Dental Center are proud to help patients maintain dental hygiene and oral health through proactive care.
Who is a candidate for Dental Hygiene Services?
Dental hygiene services are usually carried out by a dental hygienist instead of a dentist. However, your dentist may also perform these treatments when needed. The preventive care offered at our clinic may include tooth cleaning, tartar removal, plaque removal, stain removal, and general tooth and gum care. Even though our procedures are not designed to treat a specific problem, they can keep new ones from occurring, such as cavities and tooth decay.
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What Are The Benefits Of preventive dentistry?
Patients of all ages can benefit from dental hygiene services. Treatments reduce harmful plaque and tartar, and polish your enamel for a brighter and healthier smile. Our team can also provide tips on better home care and identify any areas that could use a little more attention. At our dental practice in Bay City, MI, we provide treatments such as fillings and tooth restorations to improve your oral health and solve common problems, like pain and infection.
How Often Should Patients Seek Dental Hygiene Services?
Dental hygiene services are intended to keep your teeth and gums in top condition, so other dental treatments are less necessary in the future. For this reason, Bay City Dental Center recommends seeing a dental hygienist or dentist twice a year for preventive care. One of our skilled professionals may recommend coming in more often if you have other oral care concerns, such as cavities or gum disease.
What Happens During A Dental Hygiene Appointment?
When you visit our office for dental hygiene services, we will most likely take x-rays and images of your teeth so we can see any potential areas that need to be treated. Your appointment may involve a dental cleaning that includes tartar and plaque removal. We clean the areas above and slightly below the gumline, removing any material where bacteria thrives, causing gum disease and decay. Once your teeth are clean, they may also be polished, which can help to remove surface stains and give you a whiter smile.
Most people find that they can comfortably have a dental hygiene appointment without any anesthesia, but if you find that it is painful for you, local anesthesia can be provided to numb the area. While we work, we will examine your gums and other soft tissues carefully to ensure that there are no issues that need to be addressed by family dentistry practitioner Dr. Ward in Bay City, MI.
Dental Hygiene FAQ
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Even with regular brushing and flossing, you still need your teeth professionally cleaned to remove tartar and plaque. Bay City Dental Center recommends having your teeth cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist twice a year to ensure optimal oral health and to identify any possible issues early so they can be treated before they become a problem.
Do teeth cleanings hurt?
In general, a professional teeth cleaning doesn’t hurt. People with more sensitive teeth or gums may experience mild discomfort. We also offer local anesthesia if the procedure is too uncomfortable for you. If you have any sensitivity after your procedure, you can always take over-the-counter pain medication, but as always, you should consult your doctor before you take any medication.
How long do deep teeth cleanings take?
Depending on how extensive your cleaning needs to be, you can expect a cleaning to take between 45 minutes to an hour.
Does dental cleaning hurt your teeth?
No, dental cleanings do not damage the enamel of your teeth. A deep teeth cleaning performed by a professional hygienist like our team members at Bay City Dental Center is one of the best preventative measures you can take to ensure the health of your teeth and gums, which can prevent cavities, disease, and to keep your teeth looking brighter.
Why is flossing important for dental health?
Flossing is crucial for removing food particles and plaque stuck between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach. Not flossing can lead to gum disease and cavities between the teeth. At Bay City Dental Center, we highly recommend incorporating flossing into your daily routine.
Is using mouthwash necessary for dental hygiene?
While not a substitute for brushing and flossing, mouthwash can add an extra layer of protection against bacteria. It can help to freshen breath, reduce plaque, and combat minor gum inflammation. However, we advise that you consult with a dental professional at our Bay City, MI office for a mouthwash that suits your needs.
For A Cleaner, Healthier Mouth
Even the best at-home brushers and flossers need regular professional cleanings and hygiene services as part of an optimal oral health routine. At Bay City Dental, our dental hygiene services can help remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup, get rid of bacteria on the gums, and give you a brighter, whiter smile during a quick visit with a dental hygienist at our Bay City, MI office. For more information about dental hygiene and our services, get in touch with us at your earliest convenience.
