Maintain Optimal Oral and Overall Health with Regular Dental Cleanings
Many people think of oral health as separate from the rest of their body—but the health of your mouth directly impacts your overall wellness. Conditions such as gum disease and oral infections can increase the risk of serious health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and even dementia.
At Brimhall Family Dentistry in Fort Collins, we stress the importance of regular dental cleanings. These cleanings don’t just give you a whiter, brighter smile—they also help protect your long-term health by preventing oral diseases and catching potential problems early.
Call us today at 970-482-4242 to schedule your next dental cleaning!
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Essential
Professional dental cleanings do much more than polish your teeth. They help:
- Prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss
- Reduce the risk of systemic health conditions such as heart disease
- Remove stains caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco
- Eliminate plaque and tartar buildup for fresher breath
- Detect signs of oral cancer early
- Reinforce your daily brushing and flossing routine
- Provide an opportunity for your dentist to spot issues before they become serious
The Academy of General Dentistry recommends a professional cleaning at least twice a year to maintain optimal oral health. For patients with gum disease or other conditions, more frequent visits may be recommended.
What to Expect During Your Dental Cleaning at Brimhall Family Dentistry
A typical dental cleaning is a straightforward, comfortable process that usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. Here’s what you can expect when you visit our Fort Collins office:
Diagnostic and Preventive Services
- Tartar Removal: Even with excellent home care, tartar (hardened plaque) can form in areas that are hard to reach. We use gentle ultrasonic tools and fine hand instruments to remove it effectively.
- Teeth Polishing: After removing plaque and tartar, we polish your teeth using a soft rubber cup and a special polishing paste. This leaves your teeth smooth and shiny.
- Fluoride Application: For added protection against decay, we may apply fluoride using comfortable trays that help strengthen your enamel.
- Gum Health Assessment: We check for signs of gingivitis or periodontal (gum) disease by measuring the depth of your gum pockets and evaluating bone health through digital X-rays when needed.
- Bite and Chewing Evaluation: We ensure your bite is functioning properly and check for any signs of wear or difficulty chewing.
- Oral Cancer Screening: We examine your mouth, face, and neck for signs of abnormalities or potential oral cancer.
Health Review & Education
- We’ll review your medical history, including medications that may impact your oral health.
- If you have gum infections or persistent issues, we may recommend site-specific antibiotic therapy.
- We’ll clean and adjust any dentures or partials if applicable.
- Our team will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and offer advice on diet, nutrition, and tobacco cessation, if needed.
- Based on your exam, we’ll make recommendations for future care, whether it’s another cleaning in six months or further periodontal treatment.
Advanced Cleaning Options
- If you haven’t had your teeth cleaned in more than a year, we may recommend a full-mouth debridement to remove heavy buildup and evaluate the health of your gums and teeth.
- For patients with gingivitis or periodontal disease, we offer targeted treatment that may include laser therapy to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Patients who maintain good daily oral hygiene usually experience little to no discomfort during cleanings. If you experience sensitivity or discomfort, we can apply a topical anesthetic to keep you comfortable during your visit.
Take the First Step Toward Better Health
Routine dental cleanings are your first line of defense against gum disease, tooth decay, and oral health issues. They are also key to maintaining a bright, healthy smile.
Call Brimhall Family Dentistry in Fort Collins today at 970-482-4242 to schedule your dental cleaning appointment.
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Your healthiest smile starts here!