In any area of medicine, people have several questions. The case is the same with dental health. One needs to know the when, how, and why. Getting answers to questions helps you feel more at ease with the decision you are making for your oral health. Since at the core of everyone’s heart is the need to care for their health, it should not take much convincing for you to start up on intentional dental care.
With dental health, an important concept is regular dental exams and cleanings. Any questions you have about this routine should be addressed quickly, allowing you ample time to get started on caring for your oral health.
Answers To The Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Exams And Cleanings
What are dental exams and cleanings?
Dental exams are routine tests and examinations that are conducted when you visit a dental clinic. On the other hand, dental cleanings are professional efforts for cleaning the oral cavity to keep the oral cavity clean.
Are they done together?
In many cases, both dental exams and cleanings will be performed together. This is usually during the regular visits you schedule with your dentist. First, the dental exams are conducted, and then a dental cleaning session follows. However, they don’t need to happen together. If your last dental cleaning session were less than three months ago, then your dentist would have you wait for a couple more weeks before getting another deep clean.
How often should you get your teeth cleaned?
Oral hygiene is a matter of concern every day. While you should brush your teeth twice daily, deep cleaning cannot happen that often. You should get a deep clean at least two times a year. If you want more, it is recommended to wait about 3 to 6 months before your next professional teeth cleaning.
What are the common signs I need a dental exam?
Dental exams are open to anyone. However, the common signs that you need an appointment for a dental exam include:
Bleeding gums
Pain in your jaws and gums
Bad Breath
Toothache
Tooth Sensitivity
However, even without any underlying symptoms, determine to visit your dentist for a dental exam. The exams help you keep up with your oral health, with close monitoring for any health issues.
What should you expect from the teeth cleaning session?
A dentist will either perform the task or a dental hygienist. The processes involve scraping off any plaque and tartar from your teeth, teeth brushing, flossing, rinsing, and polishing your teeth. You can also expect a fluoride treatment afterward to strengthen your teeth.
How long do teeth cleanings take?
Teeth cleanings should take between 30-45 minutes. This depends on how severe the plaque and tartar in your mouth are, which is the part that takes longer.
What should you expect from your first dental exam?
On your first visit, you will encounter a lot of documentation. Your dentist will gather information about your dental health and other health records. A physical exam will also help to build up the dental record for you as a patient. Afterward, a digital exam may be employed to check your oral health further. Besides, be open to the possibility that teeth cleaning and exam may happen together.
What should you bring during your first dental exam?
If it is your first time visiting a dental clinic, here are some of the things you should bring during the first visit:
Personal identification
Insurance card – if it is applicable.
Medical records – and information regarding pertinent medical information are crucial to your dentist.
Intake form
HIPAA consent form
On your first visit, do not be overly concerned about what you have forgotten. Someone will help you with your documentation in the dental clinic before you get into the dentist’s office for the oral exam.
Does insurance cover teeth cleanings?
Most insurance companies cover the full cost of dental cleanings. However, they are likely to cover only 2 cleaning annually, which is also effective. However, make sure you check with your insurance about the cover for your teeth cleanings or have a separate dental plan for it.
