Dental Cleanings

Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings (Hygiene Visits) Important?

Your smile communicates confidence and a sparkling smile can give you a more positive outlook on life. We don’t believe this is an exaggeration. We are the Savannah dentist office committed to bringing out your brightest smile.

Why does the American Dental Association and Dr. Schnabel recommend you come back every six months for a regular dental cleaning? Regular dental visits are vital in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.

What is fluoride treatment?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been proven to help fight cavities. It is added to the municipal water supply in most areas of the United States, and fluoridated toothpastes are readily available. However, those at moderate to high risk for cavities may benefit from a professional fluoride treatment.

In this simple procedure, fluoride in a gel, foam, varnish, or solution form is applied to the teeth with a brush, cotton swab, or tray, and allowed to sit for several minutes. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 30 minutes to give your teeth more time to fully absorb the fluoride. Depending on your unique oral health, you may need fluoride treatments once, twice, or even four times per year.

Teeth cleaning appointments prevent heart attacks?

Not only are your teeth a key part of your personality but regular dental care can prevent serious health issues. Research has proven a link between the advanced stages of gum disease and health problems like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Over time, plaque and tartar can form in some areas even with meticulous brushing. When tartar collects below the gum line, gum infections can result and can lead to tooth loss or gum disease.

How long has it been since you’ve visited a Savannah dentist?

In addition to a great smile, we want you to have healthy teeth and gums. One of the most important reasons to visit a dentist is to keep your teeth clean and identify any emergency dental problems you may be experiencing. Having your teeth professionally cleaned can identify dental problems that you may not be aware of.

In the midst of our busy lives, a dental visit is often delayed. Regular dental cleanings get skipped. The longer you go without a trip to the dentist the harder it is to put forth the effort to make an appointment. We understand, but we won’t let you off that easily!

Can I wear makeup to my dental appointment?

You can, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Dental procedures involve placing hands, tools, and water inside your mouth. Depending on exactly what you are having done, your mouth may also be numbed. Since the area around your mouth will likely get messy, it’s best to skip the lipstick, foundation, and full face powder. There’s nothing wrong with using a bit of mascara or a touch of blush, but less truly is more for a dental appointment. If you’re heading to work or a social engagement after your appointment, you can always freshen up and apply makeup in the restroom on your way out.

Does chewing gum hurt my teeth?

Like so much in life, it depends. Sugar-containing chewing gum can increase your risk for tooth decay and gum disease, as it feeds bacteria and promotes plaque. Sugarless gum, though, can actually be good for your teeth. In fact, some sugarless gum carries a seal of approval from the ADA (American Dental Association).

Chewing sugarless gum promotes the flow of saliva, rinsing bacteria from the mouth and reducing the risk for tooth decay. Although it is no substitute for brushing and flossing, chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following a meal is an excellent way to cleanse the mouth when brushing is not possible.

We recommend regular cleanings by our hygienist to help you keep overall good dental health. In fact, we suggest a full set of x-rays if you don’t have current dental x-rays on file with another office.

What happens during a regular visit to our Savannah office?

Checking your teeth for cavities and cleaning your teeth is only part of a thorough examination. This is our opportunity to find out if you’ve been having any discomfort and allow Dr. Schnabel and the hygienist to inspect your overall dental health.

Following a conversation with the hygienist your appointment will include:

• Examination of your facial structure
• Examination of your neck
• Checking your lymph nodes
• Checking your lower jaw joints or TMJ’s
• Examination of the gums
• Checking for loose teeth
• Examination of the tissue inside your mouth
• Checking your bite
• Checking for signs of tooth decay
• Checking for broken teeth
• Checking for damaged fillings
• Examination of existing dental work, bridges, fillings, crowns, implants, etc.
• Taking X-rays (if needed)
• Removing plaque and tartar
• Polishing teeth
• Flossing between teeth
• Providing instructions on improvements to dental hygiene
• Discussion about any cosmetic dentistry procedures you have requested
• Answering questions about your current condition

Do you have anxiety about seeing the dentist?

If you have dental anxiety, we have multiple options for making your visit as relaxed as possible.

Levels of sedation include:

• Minimal sedation: You’re awake but relaxed.
• Moderate sedation: You’re more relaxed and may not remember much of your procedure.
• Deep sedation: You are deeply sedated but can be awakened quickly.
• General anesthesia: You are completely unconscious.

If this page has convinced you it’s time to schedule an appointment, give us a call today and we promise you’ll enjoy the visit.