Going to your dentist for a teeth cleaning serves two purposes. The first, obviously, is that you get your teeth cleaned. The second is that your dental team can monitor your oral health so that your dentist can address problems before they get out of hand.
Twice annual teeth cleaning appointments are the best way to preserve your smile. They keep your teeth whiter and they proactively treat your teeth and gums for problems before they can get worse.
A Familiar Routine
The routine of your bi-annual dental cleaning appointment follows a familiar pattern. Once you are led into the treatment room, you are made comfortable and put at ease while the dental assistant gathers the equipment and tools they need. If you haven’t had dental x-rays in a while, you may be asked to sit for them so your dental team can have an inside look at what’s really going on in your mouth.
Then the dental hygienist will get to work cleaning your teeth. As they do, they will simultaneously examine every tooth and make notes about any issues they spot so that they can be reported up to your dentist. Then, after the cleaning and flossing have been completed, you typically will get a quick visit from your dentist who already has been briefed on anything spotted during the cleaning.
Dental Visit
At this point, your dentist may choose to conduct an examination of your teeth so that they can see for themselves what the hygienist/assistant has spotted. If treatment can be performed there and then, they may recommend that you stick around and have it done. More likely, a return appointment will be recommended for a later date so that the issue can be resolved.
Dental insurance companies understand that twice-annual teeth cleaning appointments are a highly effective way to address dental health issues before they can get out of hand. That’s why many insurers include them as part of their coverage.
