At Greater Dental Health, our dentist will clean your teeth during dental cleaning appointments. They will use specialized tools to remove any traces of plaque and tartar from your mouth to prevent oral infections and gum disease. The hygienist will also floss between teeth to wash away any leftover food particles or debris in hard-to-reach areas, leaving your smile clean and healthy.

When your dentist examines your teeth and gums during a checkup, they look for signs of decay, oral cancer, or other health issues. Plaque buildup can lead to cavities that may even require fillings to fix, so keeping your smile free of excessive bacteria throughout your visits is essential.

How Often Do I Need a Cleaning and Exam?

Most patients will need professional cleanings and exams every six months, although some may be able to wait longer or come in more often if they have gum disease or other oral health concerns. Our dentist will perform routine cleaning during these visits, check for decay and damage, and screen for issues such as oral cancer and TMJ disorder. Our team can recommend personalized care based on your risk and history.

While brushing and flossing at home is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene between appointments, our professional cleanings are far more thorough. We use specialized tools and techniques to remove plaque buildup in places your toothbrush can’t reach. Our hygienist can also give you tips on better brushing and flossing techniques so that you can improve the effectiveness of your home care routine.

Why Do I Need a Cleaning and Exam?

Only a professional cleaning can remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that have built up on your teeth during the days, weeks, and months you’ve been neglecting your oral hygiene routine. If left untreated for too long, this buildup can lead to cavities and gum disease. An annual cleaning and exam allow the dentist to identify these problems in the earliest stages when treatments like fillings or deep cleanings can be most effective. If left too long without treatment, the early stages of tooth decay can develop into more advanced stages in which extractions and root canal therapy may be necessary to save the tooth. However, if you visit your dentist regularly for cleaning and exams, you can avoid these more serious and costly procedures. A dentist is also trained to spot signs of oral cancer and other potentially deadly oral diseases much earlier than you can. Early detection can be lifesaving, so visiting the dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam is essential for maintaining good oral health. Other reasons to visit the dentist include recommendations regarding cosmetic dentistry services and screenings for sleep apnea. Depending on your needs and goals, your dentist can help you determine which treatments are right for you.

Patients are encouraged to practice good oral hygiene at home and schedule regular cleanings and examinations with the dentist to keep their teeth healthy and strong. Visit Greater Dental Health at 5210 Town Center Blvd Suite 310, Floor 2, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, or call (470) 508-0044 for the best dental care.