Taking care of the smile is more than just brushing and flossing every day at home. It also includes routine treatments and visits with the dentist to keep bacteria, plaque, tartar, calculus, disease, and decay under control! At Schmitt Dental, we strongly encourage patients to participate in proactive approaches to their oral health by visiting the dentist every six months for an evaluation and thorough dental cleaning.
Why are dental cleanings and evaluations important?
The American Dental Association highly recommends that children and adults see the dentist at least every six months. There is a reason for this. When patients see their dentist regularly, they will be on top of their oral health. This is because many conditions can be spotted during these appointments, and a definitive diagnosis can be made. With that diagnosis, treatment can occur to bring the smile back to health. Certain conditions, such as periodontal disease, can have significant consequences if undiagnosed and untreated, including the loss of gum tissue, bone, and even teeth! When periodontal disease and cavities are diagnosed in their earlier stages, the chances of successfully treating them increases dramatically.
What happens during a routine dental visit?
Most six months appointments include:
- Thorough dental cleaning – our dental hygienists can provide a professional cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and calculus from the teeth. This is done using specialized instruments that are more effective than a toothbrush and toothpaste. Our team can also get areas that might be hard to reach for patients.
- Physical examination – once the teeth are cleaned, the dentist can evaluate the patient. The dentist will look for signs of problems including dental decay or gum disease, and give patients a diagnosis if problems are spotted.
- X-rays – x-rays are images that allow the dental team to see beyond the gum tissue and into the bone and teeth. These images are essential for diagnosing several problems early, such as impaction of natural teeth in the jaw.
Call Schmitt Dental today
With three locations throughout Clarksville, TN, patients can schedule a consultation appointment and dental cleaning with our professionals to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for life! Get started visiting the dentist regularly and maintain a proactive approach to dental health!