Cleanings & Examinations in Chattanooga, TN

Preventative dental care, including checkups and dental cleanings in Chattanooga, lowers your risks for many oral health conditions, including cavities, gingivitis, gum disease, and oral infections.

Preventive dentistry also includes oral cancer screenings and treatment planning if we find issues. Of course, your Chattanooga dentist will discuss all findings with you and lay out potential treatment options so that you can make informed decisions about your oral health.

Our hygienist can also provide tips to help you care for your teeth between six-month checkups and teeth cleanings—whether through demonstrations or videos that help keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.

Continue reading to learn more about checkups and dental cleanings near Brainerd, TN.  

patient & hygienist going over dental x-raysHow Often Should I Visit My Chattanooga Dentist?

Most dentists see patients every six months for routine dental checkups and teeth cleanings. This is also the timeframe suggested by the American Dental Association. However, if you have a specific oral health issue like gingivitis or gum disease, your dentist may further customize your schedule.

Six-month checkups and teeth cleanings have been shown to lower your risks for preventable oral health conditions. Unfortunately, these conditions mean more time in the dental chair and higher dental care costs in the long run.

The team at Bridge Dental Care wants to mitigate your risks and save you money on oral care whenever possible.  

What Are the Risks if I Don't See the Dentist?

Of course, not seeing the dentist can result in various oral health complications, including but not limited to the following:

  • Tooth decay
  • Oral infections
  • Gingivitis
  • Gum disease

Gum disease is a series of infections in the bones and ligaments surrounding your teeth. It is treatable but not curable. However, the condition starts as gingivitis, which is curable! This is one of the many reasons regular checkups and teeth cleanings are vital—your dentist can catch gum disease early.

Gum disease is especially concerning because it can lead to tooth loss and so much more. Without intervention from your dentist, gum disease may leave you at risk for the following:

  • Heart complications
  • Lung complications
  • Increased cancer risk
  • Low birth weight
  • Premature labor
  • Alzheimer's disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Teeth cleanings are essential because they mitigate your gum disease risk.

Why Do I Have to Provide a Medical History?

Your twice-yearly dental checkup gives you a chance to talk to us about any concerns you've been experiencing with your teeth and gums. And we continually update your medical and dental history to ensure specific treatments are safe. We also always ask that you talk to us about the current medications you're taking.  

Your health history is significant when we are treating you. There can be interactions between specific medications and the treatments your dentist recommends. 

Additionally, if you've been diagnosed with a health issue, sharing that information with your dentist to mitigate any potential risks is essential.

A man receiving a dental examinationWhat Happens During My Dental Checkup?

Some dental health issues don't have apparent symptoms, so your dentist provides a comprehensive and detailed evaluation of your mouth, including a periodontal check and a visual exam of the jaws and teeth.

Because some oral health issues hide between teeth or below the gumline, your dentist provides x-rays periodically, and we always screen you for oral cancer. Early detection of oral cancer often contributes to more favorable outcomes.  

It's our goal to identify potential problems early, so treatments are less invasive and pose a lesser risk to your oral health. For example, small cavities mean losing less of the tooth to decay and the filling. So we want to catch the cavity before it grows and puts the tooth at risk.

If you're especially prone to tooth decay, your dentist may talk to you about a dental sealant to keep debris away from your tooth enamel. And fluoride treatments can help strengthen weak teeth.

What Happens During My Teeth Cleaning?

Our skilled hygienist thoroughly cleans your teeth during treatment, including stubborn tartar and hidden bacteria. To do this, we rely on special dental tools that gently but effectively clear debris from your gums and enamel. It is non-invasive, painless, and even relaxing for many patients.

After the teeth cleaning, your hygienist or dentist will demonstrate how to properly maintain your teeth with certain cleaning techniques you can use at home.

Professional teeth cleanings in Chattanooga often enhance your smile and freshen your breath.

woman at a dental cleaning in chattanoogaHow Can I Keep My Smile Healthy Between Dental Visits?

Between dental checkups and teeth cleanings, it's crucial to adhere to the following guidelines:

  • Brush and floss twice daily or after eating.
  • Consider foods and beverages that are low in sugar and not acidic.
  • Talk to your dentist if you suspect nighttime bruxism (teeth grinding).
  • Always protect your smile with a mouthguard if you play sports.
  • Talk to your dentist if you have concerns about your teeth and gums.

Schedule Your Dental Exam and Professional Teeth Cleaning in Chattanooga, TN

Don't miss your biannual dental visit and professional teeth cleaning. Contact our dental office to schedule your next appointment.

We accept most PPO insurance plans and work with CareCredit.