Dental Exams & Teeth Cleaning from South Bay Dentistry & Orthodontics
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will perform the following:
Examination of diagnostic X-rays (radiographs): Diagnostic X-rays provide insight in to the health of teeth, bones, and other things of this sort. They can be used to detect decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
Oral cancer screening: Oral cancer screenings are the best way to find oral cancer in its earliest stages. It’s done by checking the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of this serious oral disease.
Gum Disease Evaluation: Taking a quick look at the gums and bone around the teeth to make sure there are no signs of periodontal disease.
Examination of tooth decay: If a tooth is spotted with decay, the dentist will examine all tooth surfaces with the use of special dental instruments.
Examination of existing restorations: Our dentists will examine your existing fillings, crowns, and more.
Professional dental cleaning services at South Bay Dentistry and Orthodontics
Preventative dental care is a vital part of maintaining your teeth, and an important one to get right. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and these key parts:
Removal of calculus (tartar): Tartar is a thick deposit of minerals, mainly calcium, that has formed above and below your gum line. Tartar is difficult to remove without special dental instruments, but it can be removed with a dental scraper, dental scaler, or ultrasonic instrument.
Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on your teeth. It’s a colony of living bacteria and other particles that produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. These are the start of periodontal diseases!
Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
