Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings in Houston, TX

Tackling Oral Health Problems Before They Can Spread

Professional dental cleanings and checkups ensure the life-long health and beauty of your smile. Even if you take excellent care of your teeth and gums at home, it’s beneficial to see a dentist regularly. Twice a year dental checkups provide early detection of cavities, gum disease, wisdom tooth impactions, and oral cancer. During teeth cleanings, dental hygienists clean under the gum line and between teeth where toothbrush bristles and floss don’t reach. Additionally, dental cleanings & checkups deliver brighter smiles and fresh breath. At Roman Dental, we check for problems that you may not see or feel. Early treatment of teeth and gums saves on the cost of dental care and provides better outcomes with fewer visits. Keep reading to learn more of the benefits of dental checkups and teeth cleanings.

How Often Should You Have a Dental Checkup & Teeth Cleaning?

The American Dental Association’s recommendation is to visit twice a year for checkups and cleanings. This frequency level works well for most people. Patients with implants, crowns, and some people with gum disease, a genetic predisposition for plaque build-up or cavities, or a weakened immune system might need to visit the dentist more frequently for optimal care. Dental exams identify problems at the earliest stage before symptoms occur, avoiding discomfort and inconvenience. Early treatment is more conservative, saving teeth, time, expense, and providing better outcomes.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup & Teeth Cleaning Appointment?

At-home toothbrushing and flossing help remove plaque. However, only a professional cleaning provided by the dentist or dental hygienist can thoroughly clean your teeth and remove the hardened plaque (called calculus or tartar) that forms on teeth above and below the gum line. After your teeth have been cleaned, they are polished to remove stains on the surface. The polish may contain fluoride to harden the enamel, resist future decay, and reduce tooth and root sensitivity. Based on the results of your checkup, the hygienist may offer additional cleaning methods for you to follow at home. Please ask us for instructions about brushing, flossing, or general care questions about your teeth and gums.

Examination & Treatment Recommendations

Photographs and X-rays may be taken to locate and document dental concerns. Checkups include examination of gum tissue (periodontal health), checking for cavities, checking the tissues in the mouth for lumps, bumps, and discoloration (oral cancer screen), checking for tooth roots that are exposed above the gum-line (gum recession), sensitivity, tooth wear from clenching and checking for comfort and health of the jaw joint. During the dental checkup, we will discuss any particular issues that may be of concern including dental appearance, comfort, and function. Based on the results and concerns discussed during the checkup, together we make a plan to maintain or improve dental health, comfort, and appearance.