Commonly Asked Questions about Dental Exams and Cleanings

In preparation for your routine visit to the dentist, it is essential to know what to expect. Knowing what will go down in the dentist’s chair relaxes and calms you throughout the procedure. We compiled this list of frequently asked questions about dental examinations and teeth cleaning in Aurora, ON to help you prepare better.

What Are Dental Exams?

A dental exam involves gum and teeth checkups and teeth cleaning using professional dental equipment. Dentists recommend having these procedures twice per annum. A dentist and hygienist usually do them. While a dentist receives specialized training in caring for your teeth and gums, a dental hygienist is trained to clean your teeth and help you maintain acceptable dental hygiene practices.

Are Dental Exams Necessary?

Yes. Not only are they essential for your oral health but also your general health. The procedures deep clean your teeth and eliminate toxins that may give birth to life-threatening dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay. As much as many people believe that their teeth are safe because they have good oral hygiene routines, this isn’t the case as brushing and flossing alone can save your teeth. During dental exams, your dentist at Aurora Dental Studio detects any dental issues in their early stages before they progress. They then treat these problems saving you the need for extensive and costly treatment afterward.

What Should I Expect?

During cleanings:

• You will sit in the dentist’s chair while the hygienist shines a bright overhead light over you. Your hygienist will then use metal dental tools to clean your teeth. They will scrape your teeth to get rid of tartar and plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky coating on your teeth that, if left unattended, hardens into tartar, which is hard to remove. This process is called teeth scaling.
• Your teeth will be flossed then brushed using an electric toothbrush.
• The hygienist will apply fluoride in foam or gel form to your teeth. Fluoride helps fight tooth decay.
• When everything is done, you may receive oral hygiene tips from the hygienist.

Expect the following during dental x-rays:

• The dentist or hygienist covers your chest with a lead apron to protect you from the effects of radiation.
• You will be instructed to bite down on a plastic piece.
• The dentist places a scanner outside the mouth then proceeds to take a picture.
• Depending on the type of x-ray, you may have to repeat the process while biting down in different parts of the mouth.

During dental checkups, the dentist:

• Looks at your x-rays and notes any dental problems
• Inspects your gums and teeth to see if they are in good health.
• Checks for any bite problems.
• Screens for oral cancer. They may check your lips’ insides, mouth roof, and floor or feel beneath your jaw.

How Should I Prepare?

Unless you have some specific health conditions, there is no special preparation required. You just have to show up on time. People with heart problems, disorders of the immune system, and those who have had a recent surgery that should take antibiotics before dental exams.

Also, people with anxiety may need to be sedated to calm and relax throughout the procedure.

Will I Feel Any Pain?

It is common to experience some pressure on your teeth and a little discomfort, but dental exams are entirely painless.

What Are The Possible Results?

• The results may indicate any of these conditions:
• Tooth decay
• Gingivitis or other gum-related problems
• Bone loss

If you have a cavity, you should get treatment during your next appointment. In case of any questions concerning cavities, feel free to consult our dentist in Aurora, ON. If you have gingivitis or other gum-related problems, the following tips will be helpful:

• Improve your oral hygiene practices
• Go for dental exams and cleanings more often.
• Use a medicated mouthwash.

How Can I Care For My Teeth At Home?

To maintain optimal oral health, it is good to go for routine dental exams and cleanings and practice good oral hygiene at home. Here are tips for caring for your teeth at home:

• Brush twice daily for at least two minutes
• Use fluoride toothpaste
• Floss once daily
• Get a new toothbrush at least thrice a year
• Feed on a healthy diet
• Quit smoking