At Arrowhead Dentistry, Dr. Upton brings more than three decades of experience in the dental field, helping patients enjoy life with better oral health. An advocate for preventive care, he and our team work diligently to provide safe solutions that will minimize the chances of cavities, infections, and disease. One of the most effective ways to do this is with regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings. If it has been more than six months since your last exam, call our office to schedule an appointment.
The reason your dentist and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommend six-month dental checkups and teeth cleanings is that tooth decay and gum disease can form quickly. If you are not practicing good oral hygiene at home, these issues can arise, resulting in cavities and advanced gum disease before it can be caught early.
With biannual exams and cleanings, we can make sure that your teeth and gums remain cavity- and disease-free throughout the year. We can also examine the rest of your mouth to ensure there are no signs of oral cancer, which can be devastating if found too late.
A typical dental checkup involves having X-rays taken of your smile, as this will allow Dr. Upton to examine what is happening underneath the gumline. Once all imaging is complete, the hygienist will begin periodontal charting to determine the depths of your gums and make note of whether you have gum disease or not. A thorough examination of your oral and facial structures will also occur by Dr. Upton, as he’ll want to check for oral cancer.
We’ll then create a personalized treatment plan that we will go over with you as well as answer any questions you might have about your oral health or upcoming procedure.
Part of what makes an effective dental visit is receiving a thorough cleaning during your visit. One of our talented hygienists will come in and begin by clearing away any plaque and tartar on your teeth and gumline. By removing these, we can reduce your chances of gum disease over time.
We’ll also floss and brush your teeth to remove any surface stains as well as give your smile the shine and care it deserves.
If necessary, we will discuss the possibility of fluoride treatment to better protect your teeth in between appointments.