Cleaning (Dental Prophy)
Your dental hygienist will review your medical history as it relates to your oral health, measure your blood pressure and conduct a thorough oral cancer screening. Your hygienist will take periodic x-rays, not only to determine the health of the teeth, but also the bone that surrounds your teeth. These x-rays, along with a periodontal examination, will help your dentist map out a plan to help you keep a healthy smile for a life-time. Regular dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining a healthy mouth and healthy body. Frequency for dental cleanings may range from every three to six months depending on your specific needs.
Sealants
Sealants help reduce the risk of decay by placing material on the chew surfaces of the teeth to seal out decay.
Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal disease is loss of bone and gum tissue around the teeth due to chronic inflammation. If you have been diagnosed with periodontal disease you will need more than a dental prophy. Periodontal maintenance includes cleaning in those deeper areas where the bone and or gum tissue loss has occured. Our hygienists are trained and equipped to be able to clean in those periodontally involved areas.
Fluoride Varnish
While dentistry's use of fluoride has changed over time, the overwhelming scientific data shows that topical fluoride is extremely safe and effective at helping prevent tooth decay. Please ask Dr. Rand, Dr. Lawlor or your dental hygienist if you have any questions about fluoride.