Dental Exams & Cleaning in Lakeway, TX
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, eating healthy meals, and avoiding smoking are excellent ways to have healthy teeth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. However, if you aren’t getting a regular dental exam and deep cleaning every six months, you aren’t doing everything you can to protect your oral health.
Early detection of tooth decay and gum disease requires a competent dental examination. Your dentist can detect and treat certain tooth issues during a dental exam before they become serious and harm your general health. Our dentists in Lakeway, TX, and the team at Lake Travis Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are here to help.
Laser Gum Therapy During Dental Cleanings
Experience the latest in dental care with our laser gum therapy during cleanings. This advanced dental hygiene technique ensures a precise and minimally invasive approach to gum health. Our state-of-the-art laser technology gently targets and treats gum issues, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort. Experience the ultimate dental deep cleaning with this innovative solution that prioritizes your oral wellbeing and comfort.
Watch the video below to listen to Majet, our dental hygienist, talk about our Laser Gum Therapy treatment.
Professional Dental Cleaning Procedure
Your dental hygienist or dentist will begin working on your smile once you’ve shared your medical history and concerns. The first thing that will happen is a thorough cleaning of the teeth. Dental hygienists will use a scaler to gently scrape tartar off your teeth above and below the gum line during a dental cleaning.
Other equipment, such as an ultrasonic vibrating device that shakes away loose tartar or plaque, is sometimes utilized. The debris will then be washed away by a stream of water. Getting rid of the plaque and tartar built up on your teeth can help you avoid gum disease, cavities, and poor breath.
One of our dentists at Lake Travis Family & Cosmetic Dentistry will polish your teeth with a spinning tooth polisher and a lightly abrasive toothpaste after they have been cleaned.
And, of course, we will floss your teeth thoroughly! What’s the result? A smooth, gleaming tooth surface will prevent further plaque from developing between dental cleanings.
Comprehensive Dental Exams
Your dentist at Lake Travis Family & Cosmetic Dentistry will give your teeth a comprehensive professional dental exam once cleaned. They will look for cavities, signs of gum disease, and even early indicators of oral cancer as potential issues.
With small mouth mirror equipment, your dentist will examine the sides and back of your teeth. During the dental exam, the dentist will check how your upper and lower teeth fit together and look for signs of TMJ issues or tooth grinding. They will also examine your neck, lymph glands, palate, and oral soft tissues.
FAQs
Are there any other names for a dental exam?
Dental exams are also referred to as routine dental exams, regular dental exams, or just dental exams.
Is a dental exam the same as a dental cleaning?
No, a dental exam and a dental cleaning are two separate procedures, though they are often done during the same appointment visit.
Is a dental exam the same as an oral exam?
Yes, a dental exam is the same as an oral exam. Both involve the dentist examining your mouth, teeth, gums, and other oral cavity areas.
How often should I get a dental exam?
The American Dental Association recommends getting a routine dental exam every 6 months for most people. Those with higher risk for dental problems may need more frequent exams.
What does a dental clean include?
A professional dental cleaning typically includes:
- Scaling to remove plaque, tartar, and sticky film buildup
- Tooth polishing with a special paste
- Flossing between teeth
- Fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel
- Examination of teeth, gums, and mouth by the dentist
How much is it to have teeth cleaned at Lake Travis Dentistry?
The cost of a routine dental cleaning can vary, depending on whether any additional treatments are needed. However, at Lake Travis Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer a membership program that includes free routine cleanings, exams, and dental x-rays.
This membership program is designed to make dental care more affordable and accessible. By joining, you can enjoy savings on various dental services, including routine cleanings, while also gaining access to discounted rates for procedures like dental implants.
With this membership, you can get the regular preventive care you need at no additional cost for cleanings, allowing you to keep your smile healthy and bright.
Is dental cleaning good for teeth?
Yes, professional dental cleanings are excellent for your teeth and overall oral health. They remove harmful plaque and tartar that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
How painful is teeth cleaning?
For most people, professional teeth cleanings cause little to no discomfort when performed by a skilled dental hygienist. You may feel some minor scraping sensations but no severe pain.
Why are routine dental cleanings important?
Routine professional dental cleanings every 6 months are crucial because they remove hardened plaque (tartar) that you cannot remove through brushing and flossing alone. This helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and other complications.
What happens if I don't get routine dental exams?
Skipping routine dental exams means any developing dental issues like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer may go undetected until they cause symptoms and become more difficult to treat.
What is an ultrasonic scaler?
An ultrasonic scaler is a dental instrument that uses high-frequency vibrations to knock larger pieces of tartar and plaque off tooth surfaces during a cleaning.
What are sore gums a sign of?
Sore, swollen, or bleeding gums can be a sign of gingivitis, which is the early stage of gum disease caused by plaque buildup irritating the gums.
How can I keep my gums healthy?
To keep your gums healthy:
- Brush twice daily
- Floss once daily
- Get regular dental cleanings
- Don’t smoke
- Eat a tooth-friendly diet
How do I keep my teeth clean?
To keep your teeth clean:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
- Floss once daily
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash
- Get professional cleanings every 6 months
What are treatment options for gum disease?
Depending on the severity, treatment options for gum disease include:
- Professional deep cleanings with scaling and root planing
- Antibiotic therapy
- Surgery in advanced cases to reduce deep pockets
- Laser therapy
Do children need dental cleanings?
Yes, children should start getting professional dental cleanings around 12-24 months of age and continue every 6 months to prevent cavities and establish good oral hygiene habits.
