Our Dental Blog

We always urge our patients to see us about once every six months for a checkup and cleaning. While these visits may not seem very vital, they are in fact essential for keeping teeth and gums healthy and free of decay, infection, and disease. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist will highlight the importance of attending your checkup and cleaning appointments twice a year.

Checkups

The checkup portion involves carefully examining the smile, and using digital x-rays and intraoral cameras to obtain a detailed picture of your oral health. We then look closely at the teeth, gums, and oral structures for common signs of trouble, including demineralization that points to cavities, as well as gingivitis, gum disease, TMJ disorder, and bruxism (teeth grinding). We suggest one every six months for people of all ages, from kids and teens to adults and seniors.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Once a year, we also screen for oral cancer in our adult patients. According to studies from The Oral Cancer Foundation, over 53,000 people will be diagnosed this year. Unfortunately, half of that number will pass away as a result of the disease after just five years. The high mortality rate is linked to the fact that the disease is rarely discovered in the early stages, and is in the more advanced stages before treatment even begins. However, when you undergo a screening once a year, we have a chance to identify the problem early on. If you experience possible warning signs outside of your routine visits, then you should let us know. Possible symptoms include lesions and sores in the mouth that don’t heal after two weeks, hoarse throat, changes to your voice, unexplained weight loss, and rough patches or areas of red and white splotches in your mouth.

Dental Cleanings

As part of this visit, our team also cleans the teeth thoroughly. The process involves using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to carefully remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. The process helps prevent enamel erosion and gum inflammation, protecting you from issues like tooth decay and gum disease. You also fight bad breath and teeth stains too! If you have any questions about our checkup and cleaning visits, or if you would like to schedule one for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today.

Do You Have Questions About Our Checkup Visits?

Our team wants to help you and your family continue to maintain your best possible smile with routine care both at home and in our office. To learn more about our approach to general and preventive dental care, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.