Cleaning and prevention in Burnaby

Regular dental exams and cleanings are a great preventative tool to help maintain good oral health. It is recommended that patients see their dentist and/or hygienist every six months or so for cleanings. A patient who is more prone to cavities or gum disease may want to go more often, such as three times per year instead of just two. Similarly, a person who is generally healthy and has a good oral hygiene routine at home may be able to stretch the time between their visits a little bit. However, all patients should come in regularly for a dental cleaning and exam.

Dental cleanings and exams are about more than just removing plaque and tartar buildup and preventing cavities. At each visit, your dentist will likely include diagnostic x-rays (radiographs) to find decay, tumours, cysts, bone loss and tooth positions which may not be visible to the naked eye. Your dentist will also do an oral cancer screening to check your face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer. This is a very important exam, as oral cancer is more easily and effectively treated when caught early on. As with most cancers, early detection gives a better chance for survival. While lifestyle factors such as smoking and high alcohol consumption are risk factors for oral cancer, almost anyone can develop these types of cancers.

At your exam and cleaning your dentist and hygienist will also check your gums and bone around your teeth for any signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss amongst adults, and the early symptoms are often silent. In fact, untreated gum disease has been linked to other diseases in the body such as heart disease and diabetes. Treating gum disease and preventing recurrence is essential for your oral and overall health.

In addition, at your cleaning and exam your dentist will check your tooth surfaces for signs of decay- cavities are generally easier and more comfortable to treat when caught early on. Your dental restorations such as fillings, crowns and veneers will be checked as well to ensure that they are stable and intact.
Often times patients may be tempted to neglect regular appointments for cleanings and exams. However, maintaining these appointments is not only beneficial for the patient’s health, but can also save time and money in the long run. Most dental issues will not resolve themselves over time and will only get more challenging to correct the longer they are left untreated. Therefore, dental cleanings and exams may be seen as an investment in one’s health and an important part of a healthy lifestyle.