How Important Is Oral Hygiene?

Oral hygiene is necessary for eliminating bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria builds to form plaque that can harden and lead to long-term ailments such as gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, and periodontal disease if it is not removed. A good dental care routine and regular check-ups with the McMinn Team will keep your mouth healthy and prevent inflammation, infection, decay, and tooth loss.

Why Get A Dental Exam?

Dental exams give us the opportunity to evaluate your current methods of dental care and provide suggestions for future care in order to protect you from complications such as cavities and gum disease. They also allow McMinn Dental Center to detect problems early so they can be fixed quickly and easily.

How Often Should You Get A Dental Exam?

Dental exams should generally take place every six months. However, consult with our team to decide how often you should be examined. We may suggest that you visit more frequently based on factors such as smoking, frequency of cavities, and genetic susceptibility to tooth and root decay as well as gum disease.

What Can I Expect From A Dental Exam?

At a typical dental exam, our team will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing any surface stains or deposits, called tartar or calculus, that are more difficult to remove than plaque and require professional dental instruments. We will also:

• Check For Signs Of Decay Or Gum Disease
• Perform X-Rays For Detailed Analysis
• Review Your Current Dental Care Routine
• Demonstrate Proper Brushing And Flossing Techniques

With this information in mind, the McMinn Team will provide suggestions on how to improve your habits to promote optimal oral health.

How Can You Prepare For A Dental Exam?

The best way to prepare for a dental exam is to practice good dental care. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day is recommended. Be sure to clean your teeth before you arrive at your appointment. While our team will be cleaning your teeth for you, it is helpful to remove food and plaque beforehand so we can focus on the more difficult-to-clean areas.

You also want to make sure you are prepared to share pertinent information such as your medical history, insurance coverage, and current dental care methods. Don’t be embarrassed to be honest about your oral health habits—the McMinn Team is not here to judge you, but to work with you to ensure long-term dental health. Lastly, be prepared to schedule a follow-up appointment or future check-up at the end of your visit.