Exams & Cleaning

Flossing

Recent studies show that gum disease has been linked to:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Pneumonia and other respiratory diseases
• Diabetes
• Premature, low birth weight babies
• Our Emphasis is on Preventive Dentistry.

Regular dental visits, including cleanings and assessments by our hygienist are essential in the prevention of gum and periodontal disease; as well as maintaining overall wellness.

Routine dental visits, including cleanings and assessments by our hygienist, are essential for preventing gum and periodontal disease. These visits also contribute significantly to your overall wellness. Gum disease begins when plaque, a soft film of bacteria, and calculus (hardened plaque, also known as tartar) accumulate on the surfaces of your teeth. Without regular brushing and flossing, this bacterial buildup causes gum inflammation, a condition called gingivitis. If left untreated, the bacteria can move below the gum line and affect the bone supporting your teeth, leading to a more serious condition called periodontitis.

Gingivitis affects an estimated 75% of the population. One of its earliest and most common signs is bleeding while brushing or flossing. The good news is that gingivitis is both preventable and reversible with proper oral care, including daily brushing and flossing. However, without timely treatment, it can quietly progress to periodontitis, a condition that often advances without pain and may go unnoticed until it reaches an advanced stage, putting you at risk of tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to rely on your dentist and hygienist to detect gum disease in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective.

At Flourish Dental, we create personalized dental hygiene plans based on your unique needs and lifestyle. Regular checkups also help us detect other dental concerns early, such as tooth decay, oral cancers, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, and muscle-related conditions.

Everyday Dental Hygiene

Daily brushing and flossing remain essential for preventing plaque buildup and reducing your risk of gum disease and cavities. However, even the most consistent at-home hygiene routine can’t catch everything. That’s why we recommend visiting us for a professional dental cleaning every six months. Depending on your specific needs, we may suggest more frequent visits to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Diet And Oral Health

Diet also plays an important role in oral health, though it’s often overlooked. If you frequently consume sugary foods and drinks, harmful bacteria in your mouth will thrive, increasing your risk of cavities and gum inflammation. In such cases, we often recommend a more frequent brushing and flossing schedule to counteract the effects of sugar on your teeth.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride treatments are another effective preventive tool. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay. We often apply fluoride during your regular dental cleanings and may also recommend toothpaste or mouthwash that contains fluoride to further support your oral health at home.

Complete Oral Exams

Regular dental exams do much more than check for cavities. A complete oral exam includes a thorough assessment of your gums, teeth, and jaw, along with an oral cancer screening for your peace of mind. The more consistently you attend these appointments—ideally every six months—the better we can track any changes in your dental health and catch issues early, before they become more serious.

The Benefits Of X-Rays

In addition to manual examinations, dental X-rays play an important role in preventive care. X-rays help us detect issues such as cavities between teeth, bone infections, and growths like cysts or tumors that may not be visible to the naked eye. At Flourish Dental, we use digital X-rays, which reduce radiation exposure and provide instant imaging in a more environmentally friendly way.

Preventive care is the foundation of long-term oral health. By maintaining a daily routine of brushing and flossing, making smart dietary choices, and keeping up with regular dental visits, you can protect your smile and overall health for years to come.