“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” When it comes to your oral health, this old saying certainly holds true. At Lakewood Dental Group, we offer a complete range of restorative dental treatments. But we would much rather help you avoid these procedures with routine preventive care. Regular dental cleanings and exams can keep your smile bright and healthy, warding off decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Along with their team, Drs. Shaun Sigurdson and Mihir Patel practice conservative, minimally-invasive dentistry. Your Lakewood dentist and hygienist will use gentle techniques, and their personable manner will ensure that you never feel rushed in our office.
How often should I visit the dentist?
For optimal oral health, you should visit the dentist every six months. Typically, we will take x-rays once a year. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms or have a history of dental health concerns, you should not hesitate to come in more often.
What should I expect during my cleaning and exam?
At your visit, your hygienist or dentist will remove hard plaque and tartar from your teeth. Then he or she will brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush and a grainy toothpaste. It is important not to use abrasive toothpastes at home, but when applied by a skilled professional, it can polish your teeth for a beautiful sparkle.
Your dental professional will also evaluate your gums and teeth, looking for any soft tissue inflammation, signs of dental erosion, or areas of decay. Typically, we will take x-rays once a year, but if we notice any areas of concern, we may take additional imaging. Every exam also includes an oral cancer screening.
Are dental cleanings really as important as they say?
Yes! Along with good dental hygiene at home, biannual dental visits are the best way to prevent decay and gum disease. Even if you are diligent about daily brushing and flossing, you will not be able to remove the sticky plaque and hard tartar that accumulate on your teeth.
Additionally, an oral cancer screening is extremely important since the disease is much easier to treat when it is diagnosed early on.
Are dental cleanings and exams affordable?
Dental cleanings and exams are almost always covered by insurance. Lakewood Dental Group accepts most PPO insurances. If you do not have insurance, we also offer a membership plan, which includes preventive services.
Are x-rays safe?
Some patients worry about radiation exposure due to dental x-rays, but there is no cause for concern. In fact, over the course of one year, you are exposed to more radiation from the natural environment than you are when you receive dental x-rays.
Nonetheless, our dentists in Dallas are committed to providing the safest possible care. Our digital x-rays reduce the already low radiation exposure by 80 to 90%.
What’s the difference between a cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar from your teeth. Everyone needs this routine treatment. A deep cleaning is an effective treatment for gum disease. During this procedure, your dentist will remove bacteria from your gums and smooth porous areas on your tooth roots to keep the microbes from returning.
Schedule Your Preventive Visit Today
Dental cleanings are quick and painless, and they can prevent a lifetime of oral health problems. Don’t wait to make your appointment. Schedule an exam online or call Lakewood Dental Group at 214-827-2885.
