REGULAR DENTAL CHECKUPS, CLEANINGS, AND X-RAYS ARE VITAL TO MAINTAINING A HAPPY, HEALTHY SMILE

Routine dental visits are essential for good oral health, even if you brush and floss diligently at home. At Cornerstone Dental Arts – Fort Sanders West in Knoxville, TN, we perform dental cleanings and exams to preserve the health of your teeth and gums and identify any existing problems as early as possible. We have been improving the health and appearance of patients’ smiles for over 35 years by combining technology, science, and artistry into unique and beautiful smiles for each individual.

BENEFITS OF CLEANINGS AND EXAMS

  • A Healthier Smile – In addition to removing plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas, your hygienist can offer tips for improving your hygiene at-home between visits.
  • Affordability – Six-month exams and cleanings are usually covered by most insurance plans and are more cost-effective than restorative dental work like crowns or root canals.
  • Improved Whole-Body Health – Attending routine cleanings and exams is an investment in your overall well-being, as oral bacteria is linked to serious health concerns.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE EXAM?

During a dental check-up, we will visually examine your teeth, gums, jaws, and surrounding structures. We may also take x-rays to check for any issues with the roots of your teeth and the supporting jawbone, such as decay, fractures, or infection. Additionally, we will conduct an oral cancer screening to look for any abnormal tissue changes that could indicate early signs of cancer. If we find any cavities, gum disease, or other problems, we will discuss treatment options with you in detail. Our team may also show you proper hygiene techniques to help prevent future issues.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE CLEANING?

Your biannual cleaning is essentially a more in-depth version of your normal dental hygiene routine. After the initial exam, your hygienist will carefully remove plaque, tartar, debris, and bacteria from the teeth surfaces with a combination of hand scalers and ultrasonic instruments. Next, gritty toothpaste and a special rubber cup are used to polish the teeth and remove stains and biofilm. Finally, they will floss between the teeth, removing irritants from hard-to-reach places.

Afterward, the hygienist may talk with you about fluoride treatments, dental sealants, or other preventative procedures, based on your unique dental needs. They can also recommend certain products or hygiene tools to increase the efficacy of your at-home care.

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR CLEANINGS AND EXAMS

Dental cleanings and exams are vital, even if you are meticulous with your home care. Oral bacteria levels continue to increase over time. While brushing and flossing are essential to maintaining a healthy smile, they are not usually enough on their own.

While many patients can keep up healthy teeth and gums with biannual cleanings, some may require more frequent visits. During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Kinder and Dr. Whitaker can determine a cleaning schedule that will be most effective for your needs.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

We have been proudly serving our community since 1990. To help patients afford the treatment they deserve, we offer a number of payment options, including CareCredit® financing. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us at (865) 539-6030 or contact us online anytime.