Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Allentown, PA

Oral health problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth infections often start out unnoticeable, but treating them in their early stages can save you time, money, and discomfort later.

Regular brushing and flossing at home are essential steps in your oral hygiene routine, but they don’t go far enough to keep your smile as healthy as possible. That’s why Dr. Young recommends you visit our office for a checkup and cleaning every six months, or twice a year.

Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?

While it can certainly be tempting to skip out on your routine dental visits if your mouth looks and feels fine, doing this can hurt you in the long run.

Regular checkups and cleanings can remove built-up plaque that could eventually cause cavities, and cavities that are already forming can be diagnosed and treated before they require a crown or a root canal. These visits can also help prevent dental emergencies.

Thankfully, dental insurance almost always covers two preventive checkups and cleanings each year, but fillings and other restorative treatments will typically require some out-of-pocket expenses.

Taking time out of your schedule for two brief dental visits each year could save you time as well; by helping you avoid the need for invasive and time-consuming procedures.

Finally, it is important to understand that poor oral health is linked to several other overall health issues, such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and heart disease. Regular preventive care may help reduce your risk of developing these conditions.

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup 

During your exam and cleaning appointment, Dr. Young and the team will:

• Visually inspect your teeth, gums, existing dental work, and overall bite.
• Screen your soft tissues for oral cancer. 
• Take X-rays to detect any problems under the surface of your smile.
• Customize a treatment plan if any issues are discovered. 
• Answer your questions or concerns about treatment or at-home oral care. 
• Update and review your medical history and any medications you may be taking that could impact your oral health.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Even with daily brushing and flossing, there are still parts of your mouth that are impossible for you to clean on your own. That’s why professional dental cleanings are so important. During your cleaning, the dental hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup on and between your teeth and along your gumline.

Removing this buildup will reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. Your teeth will then be polished, which can often reduce the appearance of minor surface stains. Your teeth will then be flossed, and you’ll be free to go!