Even if you brush and floss every day, plaque and tartar can still build up on your teeth over time. That’s why dental cleanings and exams are such an important part of keeping your mouth healthy. These routine visits are about more than just a clean smile — they’re your first line of defense against tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
At Riverside Dental in Watertown, WI, we know that regular dental cleanings and exams can make a big difference in your overall health. Let’s take a closer look at how they work, what you can expect, and why you shouldn’t skip them.
What Are Dental Cleanings and Exams?
Dental cleanings and exams are preventive services that help keep your teeth and gums healthy. During these appointments, a dental hygienist will gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially in areas that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss. Then, the dentist will check your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of any issues like cavities or infections.
While brushing and flossing help remove plaque on a daily basis, tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed during professional dental cleanings and exams. Left untreated, tartar buildup can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
Step-by-Step: How Dental Cleanings and Exams Work
Your visit begins with a friendly greeting and a review of your dental history. Here’s what happens next:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using special tools, our team will carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. This includes the gum line and tight spots between teeth where buildup often hides.
- Professional Polishing: After cleaning, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and make your smile shine. This also helps smooth the surface so plaque has a harder time sticking in the future.
Flossing and Rinsing: Your hygienist will floss between each tooth and help you rinse away any loose particles. - Dental Exam: Once your teeth are clean, the dentist performs a thorough exam of your mouth, checking for signs of decay, gum problems, or other concerns.
- Recommendations: If anything unusual is found, the dentist will explain the next steps. This may include follow-up visits, cavity treatment, or suggestions for better brushing and flossing at home.
The Role of Preventive Tools and Treatments
During your appointment, you may also receive additional services that support your oral health:
- Dental X-rays are sometimes taken to check for issues beneath the surface. These images help detect cavities, bone loss, or impacted teeth that aren’t visible during a regular exam.
- Fluoride treatment is another helpful service often offered during dental cleanings and exams. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and protects against decay, making it especially beneficial for children and adults who are more susceptible to cavities.
Why Consistency Matters
Skipping dental cleanings and exams might not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, problems can develop. Plaque turns into tartar in as little as 24 to 72 hours, and once it hardens, it can’t be removed by brushing alone. Tartar buildup on your teeth and gums creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. This drastically increases the risk of gum inflammation, bleeding, and even infection.
By keeping up with regular dental cleanings and exams every six months, you give your dentist the chance to catch and treat small problems before they turn into bigger ones.
Who Should Get Dental Cleanings and Exams?
Everyone benefits from routine dental cleanings and exams. Whether you’re a child, teen, adult, or senior, these visits are a key part of maintaining a healthy mouth. Even if you don’t have any pain or visible issues, there could be hidden concerns only a dentist can spot.
People with certain medical conditions, braces, or past dental issues may need more frequent visits to stay on track. At Riverside Dental, we customize your care plan based on your needs and lifestyle.
How Riverside Dental Makes a Difference
At Riverside Dental in Watertown, we make dental cleanings and exams as easy and comfortable as possible. Our team is gentle, professional, and focused on making your visit stress-free. We use modern tools, clear communication, and a welcoming atmosphere to help you feel relaxed every step of the way.
We take pride in helping families across Watertown maintain healthy smiles. Whether it’s your child’s first cleaning or your own routine check-up, you can count on us to provide expert care you can trust.
Contact Us Today
If it’s been a while since your last cleaning or you’re looking for a trusted dental team near you, now’s the time to schedule an appointment. Let Riverside Dental take care of your smile with professional dental cleanings and exams that keep your mouth healthy and strong. Call us today at (920) 262-2176 to book your visit!
