The Importance of a Professional Dental Cleaning
Even if you brush and floss carefully every day, your smile is still susceptible to tartar buildup and decay. The resulting oral health issues sometimes go unnoticed until they are detected by a professional dentist. For this reason, the team of dentists at Jersey City Dental recommend scheduling a dental cleaning and exam every six months.
Regular cleanings and exams are the best way to help our team monitor your oral health before the onset of serious issues. For your convenience, we accept various types of insurance at our Jersey City, NJ, office. In many cases, your biannual exam and cleaning may even be partially or fully covered under your dental insurance.
We work hard to provide personalized care and make sure that your visit is as comfortable and pleasant as possible.
What to Expect during an Exam and Cleaning
Although the specifics of your appointment will depend on the health of your smile, most visits include imaging, an exam, and a thorough cleaning.
Imaging
If you are visiting our office for the first time, we will normally begin an exam by taking x-rays of your smile. These images allow us to get a comprehensive understanding of your oral health and identify issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. Our office uses digital x-rays, so the images are typically ready to view immediately and with minimal radiation exposure.
Because gum disease has been linked to heart disease and other health concerns, regular visits to the dentist can actually help you promote your overall health.
Visual Exam
One of our dentists will then evaluate the overall health of your smile by checking your bite and soft tissues for any signs of damage or disease. During this time, we may also perform an oral cancer screening. If we identify any outstanding oral health issues such as cavities or gum disease, we will also help you choose a treatment plan that best addresses your needs.
Cleaning
We will begin your cleaning by using a special tool to remove plaque and tartar along the gum line and across the surface of your teeth. Once these buildups have been eliminated, we can use a special gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth and send you home with a smile that looks and feels clean.
Patient Education
Taking care of your smile does not stop when you leave our office. We want to provide our patients with the tools and knowledge to take care of their smiles between appointments. After your cleaning, one of our team members will review proper brushing and flossing techniques with you.
The Importance of Regular Exams
Because gum disease has been linked to heart disease and other health concerns, regular visits to the dentist can actually help you promote your overall health. For patients who are especially susceptible to oral health concerns, including smokers, diabetic patients, and older patients, these exams are especially important.
Paying for Your Cleaning and Exam
Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of biannual exams or require you to pay a very small copay. Because an exam can help us detect oral health issues early on before they require costly or invasive treatments, a regular exam can help you save money in the long-run.
Schedule Your Cleaning and Exam Today
Our doctors are strong believers in the power of preventive dentistry. We encourage you to schedule a dental cleaning today by calling us at (201) 332-0403 or requesting an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a dental cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes. Professional dental cleanings are effective in reducing bad breath by removing plaque, bacteria, and tartar buildup. Many patients notice fresher breath and improved oral health after their visit.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
The length of a dental cleaning depends on the amount of buildup and whether additional treatments, such as polishing or fluoride application, are needed. Most appointments take between 30 minutes and one hour.
Is dental cleaning safe during pregnancy?
Yes, dental cleanings are generally safe and recommended during pregnancy. Maintaining good oral health is important for both you and your baby. Be sure to inform your dentist so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
Can children receive professional dental cleanings?
Yes. Professional cleanings are important for children to help prevent cavities, support healthy habits, and monitor proper dental development.
Are there any side effects after a dental cleaning?
Most patients experience little to no side effects. Some may notice mild gum sensitivity, slight bleeding, or temporary discomfort, which typically resolves quickly.
Can dental cleanings reverse gum disease?
In its early stage (gingivitis), gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene. More advanced cases may require additional periodontal treatment.
What happens if I skip dental cleanings?
Skipping regular cleanings can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and persistent bad breath. Over time, this may result in more complex dental issues that require additional treatment.
Jersey City Dental
Our compassionate team of dental professionals believes in providing conservative care in a comfortable and pleasant environment. Our dentists are affiliated with many esteemed organizations:
- American Dental Association
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
- Academy of General Dentistry
- American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons
Schedule an appointment at our Jersey City, NJ, practice online or by calling (201) 332-0403.