Dental Exams & Cleanings https://west85thdental.com/category/dental-exams-cleanings/ Sat, 19 Apr 2025 04:06:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://west85thdental.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/android-icon-192x192-150x150.png Dental Exams & Cleanings https://west85thdental.com/category/dental-exams-cleanings/ 32 32 What Is a Dental Recall Exam? https://west85thdental.com/what-is-a-dental-recall-exam/ Sat, 19 Apr 2025 04:06:01 +0000 https://west85thdental.com/?p=756 A dental recall exam is a routine check-up designed to monitor your oral health, identify potential issues early, and maintain your smile’s overall well-being. [...]

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Good oral health goes beyond daily brushing and flossing—it also involves regular dental visits. A dental recall exam is a routine check-up designed to monitor your oral health, identify potential issues early, and maintain your smile’s overall well-being. Whether it’s detecting cavities or spotting early signs of gum disease, these exams are an essential part of preventive dental care.

What Exactly Is a Dental Recall Exam?

A dental recall exam is a type of check-up that helps maintain your oral health by identifying early signs of issues before they become more severe. Unlike comprehensive exams, which happen less frequently, recall exams are scheduled every 6 months as part of your routine care. They focus on monitoring changes in your teeth, gums, and overall oral health to ensure you stay on track.

During a dental recall exam, your dentist will evaluate the condition of your teeth and gums, clean your teeth professionally, and perform additional screenings for potential health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or even oral cancer.

Types of Dental Exams: What You Need to Know

Several types of dental exams are available based on your needs:

  • Comprehensive dental exams: These are in-depth assessments conducted to examine your overall oral health, typically recommended once every two years or as necessary.
  • Emergency dental exams: These exams are designed to address urgent dental issues like a broken tooth, severe toothaches, or other dental injuries.
  • Specific dental exams: Focused on particular issues or concerns you might be experiencing, such as a tooth infection or the need for a root canal.
  • Dental recall exams: Routine check-ups performed every 6 months to maintain optimal oral health, including professional cleanings and screenings for common dental issues.

What to Expect During a Dental Recall Exam

When you come in for your dental recall exam, here’s what you can expect:

1. Review of Your Medical & Dental History

Your dentist will discuss any changes to your medical history, as conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis can impact your oral health. This helps us provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs.

2. Professional Teeth Cleaning

A professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar build-up, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. This step helps prevent gum disease and keeps your teeth feeling fresh and clean.

3. Comprehensive Oral Examination

Your dentist will carefully examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth tissues for any signs of decay, infection, or oral health issues.

4. X-Rays (if necessary)

X-rays are typically taken once every couple of years or if there are specific concerns. They help identify issues that are not visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or impacted teeth.

5. Oral Cancer Screening

A key part of your recall exam is screening for signs of oral cancer. Your dentist will check for any unusual lumps, sores, or discolouration in the mouth, lips, and throat.

6. Guidance & Recommendations

Based on your exam results, your dentist will offer advice on maintaining optimal oral health and may recommend treatments to address any concerns or improve your oral care routine.

A dentist showing a patient an X-ray during a dental recall exam.

Why Are Dental Recall Exams Essential?

Dental recall exams are a critical part of preventive care. Here’s why:

  • Early Detection of Problems
    The sooner dental issues like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer are identified, the easier and less costly they are to treat. Recall exams help catch these problems before they become serious.
  • Prevent Costly Treatments
    By catching issues early, recall exams can help you avoid more invasive and expensive treatments in the future, such as fillings, root canals, or gum surgery.
  • Promoting Overall Health
    Maintaining good oral health is important for your overall well-being. Research shows a link between poor oral health and conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues. Regular dental visits contribute to your overall health.

When Should You Schedule a Dental Recall Exam?

The frequency of your dental recall exams depends on your age, health, and specific needs. Here’s a general guideline:

  • Children & Teens: These patients may need exams once or twice a year due to their higher risk for cavities.
  • Adults: Most adults should aim for a dental check-up every 6 months, though your dentist might recommend a different schedule based on your oral health.
  • Older Adults: More frequent exams may be necessary to address age-related concerns such as gum recession, dry mouth, or oral cancer screenings.
  • Patients with Specific Conditions: Those with diabetes, a history of gum disease, or other health concerns may need to visit the dentist more frequently.

How to Maintain Oral Health Between Visits

While dental recall exams are crucial, your daily habits also play an important role in your oral health. The Canadian Dental Association recommends the following:

  • Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth.
  • Avoid sugary foods and drinks that contribute to tooth decay.
  • Stay hydrated to keep your mouth healthy.

How to Prepare for Your Dental Recall Exam

To get the most out of your dental recall exam, here are a few tips for preparation:

  • Update your medical history: Bring a list of any medications or recent health changes to discuss with your dentist.
  • Prepare a list of concerns: If you have any specific issues with your teeth, gums, or bite, be sure to mention them during your appointment.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene: In the weeks leading up to your exam, make sure to brush and floss regularly to get an accurate assessment of your oral health.

Schedule Your Next Recall Exam at West 85th Dental

At West 85th Dental in Calgary, we’re dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy smile. Our dental recall exams are designed to detect issues early, prevent more complex problems, and provide guidance on maintaining your oral health.

Whether you’re due for your next check-up or have a specific concern, our friendly team is here to support your dental needs. Contact us today to schedule your next dental recall exam and keep your smile healthy for years to come.

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What is Scaling https://west85thdental.com/what-is-scaling/ Mon, 24 Mar 2025 21:42:34 +0000 https://west85thdental.com/?p=750 Dental scaling is a specific type of deep cleaning that can only be done at the dentist’s office. [...]

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We’ve all been told how important it is to clean our teeth every day with floss, a toothbrush, and toothpaste. But to maintain good oral health, it’s also important to visit the dentist regularly for dental exams and professional cleanings. 

Dental scaling is a specific type of deep cleaning that can only be done at the dentist’s office. This professional procedure removes plaque and tartar build-up, which cannot be removed by day-to-day cleaning. A benefit of scaling is that it can help prevent gum disease from progressing.

What Is Dental Scaling?

Dental scaling and root planing is a procedure that needs to be done in a dental clinic by a professional. During this procedure, tartar is scraped away from above and below the gums. Root planing also removes tartar from below the gumline.

Dental scaling is usually done either by hand or with a vibrating ultrasonic tool. Professional scaling is necessary to remove tartar, which is the substance plaque (bacteria build-up) hardens into. Unfortunately, even the best brushers and flossers can’t remove tartar on their own. Untreated tartar build-up can lead to more serious gum disease down the road.

All About Gum Disease

Gum disease is a common condition experienced by many adults. There are two types: gingivitis is an early and milder form of gum disease; periodontitis is a more advanced disease that impacts the structures (eg. bone and gums) that anchor your teeth.

Symptoms of gingivitis include:

  • Painful, swollen, and red gums
  • Halitosis (bad breath)
  • Noticing blood when you brush or floss

Symptoms of periodontitis include:

  • Loosening teeth
  • Bleeding and pus
  • Receding gums
  • Halitosis (bad breath) and/or a bad taste

Gingivitis and periodontitis are associated with health conditions like diabetes and HIV as well as certain medications. Hormonal changes (such as those caused by pregnancy) and smoking are also linked. Another risk factor for gum disease is poor oral hygiene, 

About Plaque & Tartar

Plaque and tartar are culprits for gum disease. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria. It attaches to teeth and produces acids that harm your teeth and gums. You can remove plaque by brushing and flossing regularly.

If plaque remains untreated, it can harden into tartar (also called calculus). Tartar can cause infection. It cannot be removed by everyday flossing and brushing. However, dental scaling at a professional clinic can remove tartar.

Benefits of Scaling

Metal dental tools on a white background.
https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/tooth-explorer-dental-mirror-on-white-1736251595

Dental scaling can intervene in the progression of gum disease by removing plaque and tartar. Other benefits of scaling include:

  • Reducing the size of periodontal pockets: These are open gaps around teeth beneath the gum line that fill up with bacteria. A symptom of gum disease, a scaling and root planing procedure can help gums reattach to teeth and reduce the size of the pocket.
  • Preventing tooth loss: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. By being proactive about your oral care and undergoing procedures like dental scaling, you can reduce the risk of losing your teeth.
  • Managing bad breath: Gingivitis and periodontitis may cause bad breath as a symptom. Preventative care can help remove tartar and keep your breath pleasantly fresh.
  • Preventing other health conditions: Did you know that gum disease can affect other parts of your body? Researchers have found associations between gum disease and heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

What Happens During Scaling

If you’ve never had dental scaling done before, you may have some questions on what to expect.

Dental scaling can be done by a dentist or dental hygienist. At West 85th Dental, scaling is usually the first part of a cleaning appointment, which includes:

  • Scraping away tartar with small metal instruments
  • Flossing between teeth
  • Brushing with a special gritty toothpaste
  • Rinsing with water
  • Fluoride treatment, which acts as a protective sealant

Local anaesthesia may be used to reduce discomfort during scaling. Talk to your dentist if you have any questions or concerns.

Aftercare

Your dentist may give you specific aftercare instructions after a scaling appointment. How often you require scaling and cleaning will also depend on your specific oral health status.

After a scaling procedure, it’s helpful to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently, as hard scrubbing can irritate and damage gums. Try to floss at least once a day to remove plaque build-up.

You can ask your dentist about using antiseptic mouthwash, saltwater rinses, or if there are certain foods (eg. hard and crunchy foods) you should avoid. If your teeth feel sensitive to hot or cold foods, try using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth. Keep an eye out for symptoms of infection, such as swelling, bleeding, and pain. Contact your dentist immediately if you suspect an infection.

Dental Scaling & Cleaning at West 85th Dental

At West 85th Dental, we understand that dental scaling and cleaning can be an intimidating procedure. That’s why we also offer procedures like guided biofilm therapy (GBT), which prioritizes patient comfort. 

Another option for nervous patients is sedation dentistry. Available sedation methods include nitrous oxide (laughing gas), anxiolysis, and oral conscious sedation. These methods can help reduce anxiety while letting us help take care of your teeth!

Good oral health is essential to overall well-being, allowing you to smile, chat with loved ones, and enjoy food and drink. To take a proactive step in caring for your oral health, book an appointment at West 85th Dental today.

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How Many Times A Day Should You Floss Your Teeth? https://west85thdental.com/how-many-times-a-day-should-you-floss-your-teeth/ Fri, 16 Aug 2024 15:40:02 +0000 https://west85thdental.com/?p=696 Most people find flossing to be a tedious and annoying component of their dental routine. However, the benefits of flossing outweigh the inconvenience.  Flossing helps keep food and plaque accumulation at bay, leaving you with a healthy beautiful smile!  Being regular with flossing is key to maintaining its full benefits. In addition to brushing your [...]

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Most people find flossing to be a tedious and annoying component of their dental routine. However, the benefits of flossing outweigh the inconvenience. 

Flossing helps keep food and plaque accumulation at bay, leaving you with a healthy beautiful smile! 

Being regular with flossing is key to maintaining its full benefits. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing should be done in the evening, once a day. 

The Importance of Flossing

Brushing our teeth plays a key role in our dental hygiene, but it’s not enough to maintain healthy gums and teeth, as the bristles of your toothbrush can’t reach between these crevices. Flossing helps to bridge this gap.

Flossing is more than removing a piece of food debris stuck between your teeth after a meal. When done correctly, flossing plays a crucial role in maintaining overall oral hygiene. 

Dental floss can enter tight spaces, helping to remove plaque and food particles that brushing alone can’t reach. This helps prevent concerns like bad breath, gum disease, and cavities, leaving you with a healthy smile.

When plaque builds up on your teeth, it hardens into tartar, which only a dental professional can remove. By brushing and flossing regularly, you prevent tartar formation and reduce the risk of developing gum diseases which can result in tooth loss if left unmanaged.

The benefits of flossing aren’t limited to oral health. Some studies suggest a link between gum disease and general health concerns, like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illnesses. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy through routine flossing can reduce your risk of developing these conditions. 

How Often Should I Floss?

According to the Canadian Dental Association, individuals are encouraged to brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day before bed. 

This daily habit will confirm that food debris and plaque accumulation throughout the day are removed. 

Consistency is key to flossing.

If you’re new to flossing, you may experience some light bleeding between your teeth and gums. This is nothing to worry about. Light bleeding is normal and occurs because the bacteria, plaque, and food debris that builds up around the gumline can irritate and inflame your gums.

The bleeding should stop after a few weeks of consistent brushing and flossing, but if it persists, it may indicate an underlying dental health concern. In this case, it’s advised to schedule a visit

Routine dental cleanings and exams are recommended every 6 months. These visits allow your dental team to assess your oral health. We encourage these visits even for those who aren’t experiencing any dental concerns. Along with taking care of your oral health at home, these regular exams and cleanings are a great method of preventative care. 

A closeup of a young woman's fingers demonstrates the correct way to hold floss.

How to Floss Properly

Flossing may appear straightforward, but doing it correctly is vital to reap its full benefits. Being rough in your approach to brushing or flossing can further irritate your gums and cause light bleeding. 

Remember to be gentle! Following proper flossing techniques can help avoid irritation and bleeding.

  1. Cut A Piece of Floss: Start with a piece of floss about 18 inches long. Use the length of your arm as a guide. Wrap most of the floss around the middle fingers of both hands. This should give you about 1-2 inches of floss to work with
  2. Hold the Floss Tight: Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers, and gently guide it down between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. 
  3. Curve the Floss: When the floss reaches your gumline, curve it into a C-shape against the base of one tooth. Slide the floss into the space between the gum and the tooth. Then, gently rub the side of the tooth in an up-and-down motion. 
  4. Repeat: Repeat this motion on the other side of the tooth using a clean section of floss for each one. Don’t forget the back side of your last tooth.

As you become more consistent, flossing will become relatively quick and shouldn’t take you longer than a few minutes to finish! 

Alternatives to Floss

Some individuals may find using traditional dental floss to be tricky, Arthritis, dexterity issues, braces, crowded teeth, or other dental concerns can make it difficult to use regular dental floss. 

Others may find flossing unpleasant and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are alternative tools that can provide the same benefits. 

  • Dental Floss Picks: These are small plastic tools with a piece of floss strung between two prongs. The other end holds a plastic pick to remove buildup and plaque. Individuals who struggle with traditional floss may find these easier to hold and maneuver. 
  • Floss Threaders: These are flexible tools that help thread floss through tight spaces, around braces, and under bridges. They make it easier to reach areas that traditional floss might miss. 
  • Interdental Brushes: This tool resembles a tiny toothbrush. It’s designed to clean between your teeth. They come in various sizes and are a great option for those with larger spaces between their teeth. 
  • Water Flossers: These devices use a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth, making them helpful for people with sensitive gums, braces, or dental work that makes traditional flossing challenging. 

When used correctly, these alternatives to traditional dental floss can reduce food debris and plaque buildup, thereby reducing the risk of developing tartar buildup and gum diseases.

Finding a flossing method that’s most compatible with you is key to flossing consistently!

Schedule a Visit

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day is a great way to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile at home! While good oral health can be practiced at home, visiting your dental team for routine exams and cleanings still plays an important role.

Removing tough debris, like tartar, can only be removed by a dental professional. Visiting your dentist every 6 months for routine cleanings and exams provides preventative care for your teeth.Connect with our team at West 85th Dental to schedule your routine exam and cleaning.

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What Is Sedation Dentistry & What Is It Used For? https://west85thdental.com/what-is-sedation-dentistry-what-is-it-used-for/ Tue, 30 Apr 2024 14:47:05 +0000 https://west85thdental.com/?p=681 Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedatives to create a more relaxed state or even light sleep for patients during dental procedures. Sedation allows for a smoother and quicker dental procedure, as dentists can perform their work more efficiently with the patient in a relaxed state.  [...]

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Our smiles are a reflection of ourselves, making dental health crucial not only for our appearance but also for our overall physical and mental well-being. Yet, the thought of visiting the dentist can evoke anxiety in many individuals. To address this, West 85th Dental offers an option known as sedation dentistry.

Sedation dentistry involves the use of sedatives to create a more relaxed state or even light sleep for patients during dental procedures. Sedation allows for a smoother and quicker dental procedure, as dentists can perform their work more efficiently with the patient in a relaxed state. 

This efficiency can reduce the number of necessary visits. Coupled with a significantly more comfortable patient experience, these benefits make sedation dentistry an appealing choice for many. It all starts with booking your first dental exam with us.

What Is Sedation Dentistry? 

Sedation dentistry uses sedative drugs to minimize patient anxiety, enabling individuals who experience significant nervousness to feel calm during dental treatments that might otherwise cause them considerable distress.

This approach is particularly beneficial for those with dental phobias or severe anxiety, as it employs medications that allow patients to relax sufficiently to receive necessary dental care. Certain types of sedation can even make patients forget the specifics, including the smells, associated with the procedure.

It’s important, regardless of the sedation method chosen, to have a responsible caregiver accompany you. The nature of the sedation may require taking it the evening before your treatment, necessitating someone else to drive you to your dental appointment.

A dental hygienist places a mask over a patient's face as a part of sedation dentistry

How Does Sedation Dentistry Work?

There are several methods of delivering sedation in dentistry, each catering to different levels of patient anxiety and procedural requirements. These methods include:

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a gentle sedative administered via a mask that covers the nose. It is provided continuously during the procedure to enhance your mood and create a feeling of comfort, thereby mitigating pain and easing anxiety.

The side effects of nitrous oxide are minimal, with some individuals possibly feeling tingling or numbness. Its safety record is outstanding, having been utilized in dentistry for many years with great success.

Anxiolysis

Anxiolysis refers to a light oral sedative that helps you stay calm yet conscious, maintaining the capability to respond to questions and adhere to directions throughout your dental procedure. It can be used independently or in conjunction with nitrous oxide for enhanced relaxation.

Oral Conscious Sedation 

Oral conscious sedation represents a moderate level of sedation within the realm of sedation dentistry. The patient consumes the prescribed sedative before their visit, allowing adequate time for the sedative to become effective before the start of their treatment.

Rather than inducing sleep, oral conscious sedation blunts sensory perceptions. Consequently, patients stay awake throughout their treatment, yet they often have no recollection of any discomfort, odours, sounds, or other specifics related to their dental procedure.

Is Sedation Dentistry Safe?

Although dental sedation may lead to side effects in certain individuals due to factors such as existing medical conditions, medication use, age, and overall health, it is generally a safe and dependable method suitable for a wide range of patients, from children to older adults. 

Sharing your complete medical history with your dentist before your appointment is very important, as is adhering to the pre-and post-care guidelines given by your dentist, particularly for individuals taking prescription drugs or those with pre-existing health issues.

What Side Effects Can Sedation Dentistry Have?

Like any medical or dental procedure, there is a possibility of experiencing side effects. In the case of sedation dentistry, these side effects are usually mild and often dissipate within a few hours following the treatment. Nevertheless, it’s wise to be informed about potential outcomes. 

Possible side effects can include headaches, reduced blood pressure, feelings of nausea, slurred speech, drowsiness, and confusion, as well as short-term memory loss.

Can You Feel Pain During Sedation Dentistry?

Given the significant number of Canadians who have dental anxiety, making sure that procedures are comfortable is essential. Patients usually experience a sense of calm and drowsiness, even with minimal sedation. 

Thanks to the use of pain relief and local anesthesia in conjunction with sedation dentistry, patients generally do not experience discomfort during the procedure. Upon waking, patients can expect to feel relaxed.

Reasons for Sedation Dentistry 

The application of sedation dentistry varies according to the specific requirements of the patient. It can be used for a wide range of dental services, from routine exams and cleanings to more complex and potentially uncomfortable treatments. 

Sedation dentistry is primarily used for more lengthy or invasive procedures rather than straightforward ones.

Additionally, sedation dentistry may be a suitable option for people who:

  • Need substantial dental work done
  • Possess a low tolerance for pain
  • Suffer from highly sensitive teeth
  • Experience a pronounced gag reflex
  • Find it difficult to remain still during dental procedures

However, individuals who are overweight or have obstructive sleep apnea should consult both their dentist and primary care physician before opting for sedation dentistry, due to an increased risk of complications associated with sedation.

Sedation dentistry can also offer advantages for children who have severe dental anxiety or phobia. It is important, though, for parents to discuss this option with the child’s dentist and pediatrician to make an informed decision.

Is Sedation Dentistry Right for You?

If you’re wondering whether sedation dentistry could be suitable for you, consider if dental anxiety is preventing you from attending crucial dental appointments. Sedation dentistry could alleviate discomfort during more extended procedures and assist in fostering a positive rapport with your dentist.

For further information on sedation dentistry options, consider scheduling a consultation with us at West 85th Dental. We are happy to provide you with a relaxed and anxiety-free dental experience.

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What to Expect at a Dental Exam https://west85thdental.com/what-to-expect-at-a-dental-exam/ Tue, 06 Jun 2023 18:20:53 +0000 https://west85thdental.com/?p=599 A typical dental exam includes a physical exam, x-rays, and a cleaning. [...]

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Oral health care is a cornerstone of overall well-being, but many avoid or delay going to the dentist. Brushing and flossing help prevent many dental problems, but you should still get professional dental cleanings and exams.

People feel anxious about going to the dentist and put off vital appointments. Many are worried about addressing dental problems they have. But knowing why your dental exam is so critical and what to expect from your appointment can help ease your hesitance. A typical dental exam includes a physical exam, x-rays, and a cleaning.

The West 85th Dental team strives to make your dental appointments something to enjoy, not dread.

What Is the Purpose of a Dental Exam?

Your dental exam is about more than cleaning your teeth. The doctors at West 85th Dental can:

  • Assess overall oral hygiene
  • Check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease
  • Evaluate the jaw and bite
  • Establish if your teeth require fillings or other procedures
  • Examine existing dental work, including root canals, crowns, or fillings
  • Observe the position of your teeth
  • Inspect the mouth and throat for signs of cancer
  • Detect evidence of bruxism or teeth grinding

Many can be nervous or anxious at the dentist, but sedation dentistry can help promote relaxation and make dental procedures more comfortable.

Beyond oral problems, a dentist can detect signs revealing diseases elsewhere in the body. For example, unusual erosion of enamel on the teeth can suggest gut problems, and severe gum disease can sometimes be a feature of diabetes.

What Your Dentist Needs to Know

It may seem like your dental health is entirely removed from your body’s well-being, but the more you can tell your dentist about overall health, the better they can approach your oral health care. Some things you should mention to your dentist include the following:

  • New health conditions
  • Pregnancy
  • Any medications, as some side effects can include dry mouth or irritated gums
  • Any new allergies
  • Changes in your teeth’s colour, looseness, or movement
  • Bleeding in your gums or changes in colour
  • Sensitivity to heat, cold, or sugar
  • Your diet
  • Tobacco use, either cigarettes, cigars, or chew tobacco
  • Headaches from muscle soreness in your neck or jaw
  • Any dental anxiety
A male dental hygienist looks at a patient's tooth x-ray through the light

What Is a Routine Dental Exam?

Your smile is one of a kind, and your dental exams may differ slightly from one appointment to the next, depending on your dental concerns. Generally, your dental exam will follow a specific trajectory, including a physical exam, x-rays, and cleaning.

Physical Exam

During your dental exam, your dentist and hygienist will physically examine your mouth. The poking and pressure sensations are looking for sensitivity, measuring your gum line for signs of gingivitis, and looking for gaps or pockets in the gums.

X-Rays

To see the interior layers of the teeth, the roots, and between the teeth, x-rays can help detect any signs of decay or cavities not observed in the visual exam. Dental X-rays can also help identify tooth impactions, wisdom teeth, and, in children, the placement of adult teeth in the jaw.

Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning is one of the main components of a dental exam. We recommend scheduling a cleaning every 6 months to keep your teeth and gums at their best.

A detailed cleaning follows a familiar formula:

  • Scaling: To remove plaque and tartar buildup, your hygienist uses a scaler to scrape away deposits stuck to the teeth, usually concentrated along the gumline. The better your brushing and flossing habits, the easier scaling is, and the more tartar there is on your teeth, the longer this step will take
  • Polishing: A high-powered brush and a gritty toothpaste can deeply clean the teeth of leftover tarter from the scaling
  • Flossing: Professional flossing removes any polish or plaque from between the teeth. Even if you floss regularly at home, your hygienist can point out more sensitive areas, any spots you’re missing, and where to focus your flossing
  • Fluoride: Following a thorough rinse, your dental hygienist will apply a fluoride varnish to your teeth to protect your enamel, prevent cavities, and limit the growth of harmful bacteria

At the end of your dental cleaning, your dentist will review their findings with you. We may recommend follow-up appointments, preventative suggestions, or guidance on what symptoms to look for if you’re at risk of dental issues.

Schedule Your Next Dental Exam in Calgary

Don’t wait until you’re in pain to see the dentist. At West 85th Dental, our team highlights preventative care and can help you avoid some painful dental problems in the future. Contact us for a dental exam and cleaning for a brighter and healthier smile.

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