No matter how diligently you care for your smile at home, there are just certain things that need to be handled in-office in order to adequately protect and care for your smile. We have seen, through years of experience, that it’s all too easy for patients to fall behind on their professional dentistry appointments. We understand! But, these appointments are crucial to maintaining oral health. Keep reading to learn more from our Mill Valley dentists…
The American Dental Association recommends that patients complete professional cleanings and assessments every six months or so. This is just a general guideline, and your dentist will let you know if you need to see a dentist more or less frequently.
During your semi-annual cleaning, our dental team will clear away any plaque and tartar that has built up on your smile over time. Tartar, because it has calcified to the tooth structure, is particularly difficult for patients to remove at home. It’s our job to give your smile a clean slate, which you will then work to maintain at home until it’s time for your next appointment.
We also complete an oral cancer screening during these appointments. Unfortunately, oral cancers often begin by progressing asymptomatically. This means that it is very difficult for patients, on their own, to recognize that they have developed a health problem. During your cleaning, our team will assess your mouth for signs of cancerous or pre-cancerous tissues; improving your ability to seek prompt and timely treatment for oral cancers.
Our team can also give you personalized recommendations on how to tweak and improve your at-home oral hygiene routine, if necessary. Sometimes something as simple as changing your toothbrush, or adding a new toothpaste formula into your routine can make a big difference.
Our Mill Valley dentists are here to help you achieve and maintain a clean and healthy smile. It all begins with a collaborative appointment; give us a call to get started!