What Happens at Your Dental Checkup?


What Happens at Your Dental Checkup?

By Wright Smiles

Although the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends attending a dental checkup at least once every six months, many people consider it more of a suggestion. Unless their teeth hurt, or are noticeably loose, some patients don’t visit the dentist at all. The sad thing is that most dental pain and diseases can be avoided if you adhere to a schedule of professional dental maintenance. Aside from cleaning your teeth better than your toothbrush and floss can, your visit also entails a comprehensive inspection that involves more than you might realize.

Cleaning Like a Pro

At our Southlake dentist’s office, Dr. Wright and our talented team of hygienists will carefully remove the sticky biofilm, plaque, and its calcified cousin, tartar, from every surface of your teeth. Dental plaque is a byproduct of oral bacteria, which form the film to protect themselves from saliva, water, and almost anything else short of your toothbrush and floss. If it’s allowed to transform into tartar, it can no longer be removed without the professional tools and expertise of dental professionals. Ultrasonic cleaning, which uses sound waves to break up plaque and tartar, reduces discomfort associated with traditional cleaning methods. The hygienist will polish your teeth to discourage plaque buildup in the future.

What Are We Checking?

Once your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and polished, Dr. Wright can better assess the health of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. If signs of early gum disease are present, such as inflammation and/or gum recession, then Dr. Wright may recommend a deep (periodontal) cleaning. More complex than a typical dental cleaning, periodontal care involves removing bacteria from underneath the gums and smoothing your teeth’s roots to inhibit plaque buildup (like polishing your teeth’s crowns). Tooth decay is also progressive, and can often be reversed if you detect it and seek treatment early. As part of your routine checkup, Dr. Wright also carefully checks your oral tissues for signs of abnormalities, such as ulcers or open wounds that refuse to heal. In some instances, such signs can indicate oral cancer, and early detection can significantly impact the success of your treatment.

About Your Southlake Dentist:        

As a native Texan, Dr. Gregory Wright opened his private practice in Southlake, TX in 1992. He is happily accepting new patients from Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, Trophy Club, Colleyville, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wright, call our office today at (817) 481-7999.