Far too many people avoid regular dental visits, either because of dental anxiety or because it doesn’t seem necessary, and visit the dentist only when they have a specific concern. What you may not know is that regular dental cleanings can prevent many problems from occurring in the first place. If you hate coming to the dentist because of past discomfort, maintenance visits can actually reduce discomfort overall. Find the dentist scary? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people feel nervous about going to the dentist, but knowing what to expect from your dental cleaning can help lessen those fears. A dental cleaning from Dr. Ed Lazer will be unlike any you’ve had before!
Home Oral Hygiene versus Professional Cleaning
If you keep good oral hygiene, you may wonder why you need to go to the dentist at all. Brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day and flossing regularly can do a lot for your healthy mouth. Make sure to brush along your gum line too! Even though it definitely helps, brushing your teeth at home just isn’t the same as professional cleaning. In addition to your thorough cleaning, your dentist will spend one-on-one time with you to discuss your specific needs. They may recommend products to use between visits for optimal oral health. Your visit will include a complete exam, with screenings for cavities, oral cancer, and gum disease as well as an examination of your bite and joints. This well-rounded checkup will help to catch any problems early on, which allows a conservative approach with minimal discomfort.
How Often Should I Visit?
Most patients should schedule a dental appointment every six months. Depending on your specific oral health needs, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. This is most common in patients at high risk for gum disease or with well-developed periodontitis. It may seem like a hassle, but frequent visits can help reduce tooth loss – even advanced gum disease isn’t a death sentence for your teeth.
Dental Anxiety
If even the thought of a simple cleaning makes you anxious, talk to your dentist about your concerns. At Cosmetic & Advanced Dentistry our goal is to reduce fear through education. Many fears are based on the unknown, and dental fear is no different. Our compassionate, highly-trained staff spends time with each patient to carefully outline a treatment plan and describe each procedure. Dr. Lazer is dedicated to making your experience comfortable, in whatever way possible.
Schedule Your Cleaning
If it’s been a long time since your last professional dental cleaning, contact Cosmetic an Advanced Dentistry in Owings Mills, Maryland today. Schedule an appointment online or at (410) 697-6290 and take your first steps to a better smile.