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What To Expect
At Carmel Heights Dentistry

Benefits of Twice-yearly Visits

There’s no denying the health benefits of regular dental checkups. Of course you want to keep your teeth white and healthy for a beautiful smile; however, good oral health has benefits that extend throughout entire body. Avoiding the dentist puts your dental and overall health at risk. Bacteria in the mouth can affect the health of your body by increasing the inflammatory factors in the blood and tissues as your body senses the presence of periodontal disease or decay.

The Dental Exam

The dental exam is a health checkup for your entire mouth. The first visit to the dentist involves a comprehensive exam. This usually includes X-rays, a hard tissue and soft tissue exam, a periodontal exam, and an oral cancer screening.

The dental exam will:

  • Determine the health of your teeth and gums
  • Spot any areas of tooth decay
  • Detect any tooth or gum abnormalities
  • Look for signs of oral cancer

An integral part of your visit to the dentist is a thorough cleaning, usually done by a dental hygienist. This specialist uses various tools to remove stubborn plaque and tartar build up. Your teeth are then polished and flossed carefully between each tooth. The cleaning extends below the gum line to help remove debris and buildup.

Dentist Office: Dealing With Anxiety

Because dental health is so important, we want to help you overcome any anxieties that are preventing you from going to twice-yearly exams. There are a variety of steps your dentist can take to minimize anxiety and discomfort while you’re in the chair with your mouth open wide.

Cleanings and checkups can be made as painless as possible with the help of aids like an ultrasonic cleaner that will remove or loosen plaque and tartar from the teeth. The ultrasonic cleaner is a gentle alternative to the scraping tools that cause the discomfort many people fear.

Dr. Garcia or the hygienist can also apply a topical anesthetic to your gums before starting the cleaning. This will numb the surface area to eliminate any discomfort. If it is still too uncomfortable, the patient can be anesthetized which will completely numb a particular area in the mouth for an extended period of time. If you are really anxious, nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, can be used to relax you during a dental procedure.

Early Diagnosis is Essential

Regular dental visits are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of dental health problems before they progress to a more severe state. Regular cleanings at the dentist’s office will pinpoint any developing tooth decay and periodontal disease, which rarely show symptoms early on.

Are you ready to get your oral health on track?
Call us now at 858.755.7805 or request an appointment online.

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