What Can Dental Cleanings Do For Me?
Regular dental cleanings and exams are a simple and affordable means of preventing serious dental problems like cavities and gum disease. We recommend that patients visit our Fort Walton Beach, FL, dental practice twice a year for these important check-ups. If Dr. Douglas Pohl finds early signs of decay, he can treat them with convenient and minimally invasive procedures. Dr. Pohl has more than 30 years of experience practicing dentistry, and welcomes patients from surrounding communities such as Destin and Pensacola.
Benefits of Dental Cleanings and Exams
Dental cleanings and exams allow Dr. Pohl to locate and diagnose minor oral health problems before they become difficult and costly to treat. For example, many patients do not realize that they grind their teeth until a trained professional identifies the signs of bruxism. Worn teeth may also be a sign that you may have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
Most importantly, dental cleanings allow our patients to maintain optimal oral health. Many of our patients have mild levels of gum disease. While the condition may not seem like a serious threat to your oral health, gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in this country, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Other benefits of dental cleanings and exams include:
- Elimination of bad breath
- A more attractive smile
- Prevention of cavities
- Early treatment of tooth decay
- Lower long-term treatment costs
- A short office visit (usually less than one hour)
If you have not been to see your dentist in more than six months, that is nothing to be embarrassed about. We just want you to come see us so we can help start a new phase of oral health in your life.
What to Expect during Your Dental Exam and Cleaning
During your visit to our dental practice, Dr. Pohl will clean your teeth while searching for early signs of gum disease and decay.
Oral Cleaning
During your cleaning, Dr. Pohl or one of our skilled hygienists will use a special tool to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Even when proper oral hygiene habits are followed, this plaque can harden into tartar. Only professional cleanings can remove tartar.
Once your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, a gritty paste and a rotary device will be used to polish your teeth.
Dental Exam
Dr. Pohl has more than 30 years of experience identifying the early stages of tooth decay and gum disease. Using a gloved hand, he will physically check the health of your teeth and gums. If needed, x-rays or digital images will be taken. Our dental practice uses state-of-the-art technology, including VELscope® oral cancer screening. If you have experienced oral pain or have any questions or concerns about your teeth and gums, your exams are an ideal time to have those conversations.
Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning Today
We recommend that all of our patients brush at least twice a day and floss during the six months between visits. If you have not been to see your dentist in more than six months, that is nothing to be embarrassed about. We just want you to come see us so we can help start a new phase of oral health in your life.
The longer you wait to schedule your cleaning, the more likely you are to develop more serious dental problems. It’s never too late to begin restoring the health of your smile. To schedule your next dental cleaning and exam, please contact our office online or call (850) 243-0800.
