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Check up and clean:
Dental Check-Up & Clean in Ipswich
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy smile. At our clinic, we provide thorough examinations to detect any early signs of dental issues, from cavities to gum disease. Our professional cleaning service removes plaque and tartar build-up, leaving your teeth fresh and polished. We take the time to educate you on proper oral hygiene practices and offer personalized advice to keep your smile bright. With a focus on comfort and care, our team ensures that every visit is a positive experience. Schedule your dental check-up and clean today for optimal oral health!
How often should I go to the dentist?
The standard recommendation is to visit your dentist twice a year for exam and dental cleans.
Why are twice a year appointments necessary?
- So that your dentist can check for problems that you might not see or feel.
- To allow your dentist to find early signs of decay.
(decay doesn’t become visible or cause pain until it reaches more advanced stages.)
To treat any other oral health problems found. Lesions in the oral mucosa are better detected early for better outcome.
What happens at the typical check up appointment?
The typical dental check up visit usually includes the following oral health care activities:
Professionals who will treat you.
You will be treated by one of our dentists who will conduct an oral exam of your gums and teeth, ask about changes in your overall health or medicine use, clean your teeth, look for signs of oral cancer and other diseases, diagnose any oral health problems and make treatment recommendations.
Cleaning.
Although home-based tooth brushing and flossing help remove plaque, only a professional cleaning provided by your dentist can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the hardened plaque (called calculus or tartar) that builds up on teeth. Dentists will use an ultrasonic scaler, which provide deep cleaning above and below the gum line.
Polishing.
After your teeth have been cleaned, they are polished to remove plaque and stains on the tooth surface. The polish contains an abrasive substance and is applied using a small rotating rubber cup or brush attached to the dental hand piece, fluoride will then be applied for protection against dental caries.
Prevention.
Your Dentist might offer additional instructions for you to follow at home, based on the results of your exam. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for instructions about brushing or flossing, or general care questions about your teeth and gums.
X-rays.
X-rays are generally recommended every 2 years to detect if there is any decay between the teeth or to further examine a specific tooth at any time.
Treatment recommendations.
If any oral health problems are found during your examination, your dentist will make recommendations for the best next steps. These might include referral to another oral health care specialist, additional diagnostic tests, or advice to return for further work, a quote can be made for further treatments.
FAQ's
1. What is included in a dental exam and clean?
A dental exam and clean typically include:
- A comprehensive oral examination to check for cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues
- Professional teeth cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains
- Fluoride treatment to strengthen teeth and prevent decay
- X-rays, if necessary, to detect problems not visible during the exam
- Oral cancer screening
- Personalized oral hygiene advice
2. How often should I get a dental exam and clean?
It is recommended to have a dental exam and clean every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your oral health needs.
3. Why are regular dental exams and cleanings important?
Regular exams and cleanings are crucial for:
- Preventing cavities and gum disease
- Detecting oral health issues early
- Removing plaque and tartar that cannot be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone
- Maintaining overall oral hygiene and health
- Ensuring fresh breath and a bright smile
4. What can I expect during a dental exam?
During a dental exam, the dentist will:
- Examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of disease or decay
- Check for loose or damaged teeth
- Assess your bite and jaw alignment
- Review your dental history and discuss any concerns
- Take X-rays if needed to see underlying issues
5. What happens during a professional teeth cleaning?
A professional teeth cleaning involves:
- Scaling to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gum line
- Polishing to eliminate surface stains and smooth your teeth
- Flossing to remove any remaining debris between your teeth
- Rinsing to clear away loose particles
6. Does a dental cleaning hurt?
A dental cleaning is generally not painful. Some people may experience minor discomfort, especially if they have sensitive teeth or gums. A topical local anaesthesia may be given in some cases. Communicate with your dentist or hygienist if you feel any pain during the cleaning.
7. How should I prepare for a dental exam and clean?
To prepare for your appointment:
- Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly
- Note any dental issues or pain you’ve experienced
- Bring a list of medications and your dental history
- Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork
8. How long does a dental exam and clean take?
A typical dental exam and cleaning appointment lasts about 30 -40 minutes . If X-rays or additional treatments are needed, it may take longer.
9. What are the costs associated with a dental exam and clean?
The cost of a dental exam and clean can vary based on location, the complexity of the cleaning, and whether X-rays are required. Many dental insurance plans cover routine exams and cleanings. We can provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment options during your visit.
10. How can I maintain my oral health between visits?
To maintain oral health between visits:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce bacteria
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks
- Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet
- Avoid tobacco products
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
11. Can I eat before a dental exam and clean?
You can eat before your appointment, but it’s a good idea to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth to remove food particles. Avoid consuming strong-smelling foods that may linger in your mouth.
12. What should I do if I have dental anxiety?
If you experience dental anxiety:
- Let us know about your concerns when scheduling your appointment
- Consider scheduling a morning appointment to reduce anticipation
- Practice deep breathing or relaxation techniques
- Bring headphones and listen to calming music during the exam
- Discuss sedation options with your dentist if your anxiety is severe