Treatments
How Often Should You Schedule Your Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings?
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), regular dental exams and cleanings should occur at intervals determined by your dentist to address your unique oral health needs. Dr. Petrova and her team at Aria Smile typically recommend twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings for patients with healthy teeth and gums to lower the risk of dental disease. If, however, you have periodontal (gum) disease, we may recommend more frequent dental visits.
What Happens During Your Professional Dental Cleaning?
Depending on your gum health, we will determine the type of dental cleaning you require, which may include the following:
Prophylactic Cleaning: A prophylactic cleaning is ideal for patients with healthy gums. Our hygienist will gently and thoroughly remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can't reach. We use advanced tools, including an ultrasonic scaler, to provide a thorough yet gentle cleaning. We also offer air-polishing, which uses a fine mist to remove surface stains and leave your enamel smooth and bright.
Gingivitis Cleaning: If you have signs of early periodontal disease, such as red, puffy, or bleeding gums, you may need a gingivitis cleaning. This goes further than a regular cleaning, gently removing plaque and tartar buildup above and below your gum line. Gingivitis cleanings and meticulous home oral hygiene practices can usually return your gums to their healthy state.
Scaling and Root Planing: Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which can damage the structures supporting your teeth, leading to loose teeth and tooth loss. Scaling and root planing involves removing plaque and tartar that have built up on your teeth and gum line, followed by gently cleaning and smoothing the tooth root surfaces. The non-surgical deep dental cleaning helps promote healing and prevents further damage to your oral structures, maintaining your gum health and keeping your teeth intact.
Soft-Tissue Laser Decontamination: We may include soft-tissue laser decontamination with gingivitis cleanings and scaling and root planing. The gentle laser therapy disinfects the periodontal pockets, reduces bacteria, and supports healing, helping maintain your gum health. We may also include laser therapy with regular cleans if we notice early signs of concern, helping protect your gums against future inflammation.
Fluoride Treatment: After your dental cleanings, we may recommend fluoride application. Touted as "nature's cavity fighter," the powerful mineral helps strengthen your tooth enamel, lowering the risk of cavities. It also helps remineralize your teeth, helping reverse early decay.
Hydroxyapatite Treatment: If you prefer an alternative to fluoride, we may recommend treatment with nano-hydroxyapatite, one of the main components of dental enamel. The compound is known for its effectiveness in remineralizing teeth and reducing sensitivity, helping reduce the risk of tooth decay and also helping reverse early decay.
What Are the Benefits of Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings?
Keeping up with your preventive dental exams and cleanings offers a host of oral and general health benefits, including the following:
- Prevention: Regular dental care helps lower the risk of tooth decay, periodontal disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems.
- Early Detection: Detecting dental problems as they develop helps keep them from worsening and requiring costly, complex treatments later on.
- Better Overall Health: Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications.
- Patient Education: Each visit includes oral hygiene guidance and customized recommendations depending on your unique needs, helping promote long-term healthy smiles.
- Brighter Smiles: Removing plaque and tartar and polishing your teeth will leave you with a cleaner, brighter, and fresher smile.
Dental Exams and Cleanings Near Me in Pflugerville, TX
If you are searching for "dental exams and cleanings near me in Pflugerville, TX," contact Aria Smile to schedule a consultation. Dr. Petrova and her patient-centered team strive to help you and your family members maintain healthy, beautiful smiles through personalized preventive care. You can always expect exceptional, compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment. We invite you to call us at 512-882-2222 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!
Proudly serving families in Pflugerville, Austin, Manor, Round Rock, and the surrounding communities.
Call or visit us online to book your appointment today!