General & Preventative Dentistry

Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exams in Hastings and Doniphan, NE

Dental exams and cleanings are two of the most basic services provided by a dentist. Even if your home oral care is impeccable, there is still no substitute for professional exams and cleanings from our doctors and hygienists. Find out why professional dental cleanings are so valuable and learn about what we look for during an exam.

Dental exams are a vital component of an effective oral care plan. The specialized treatments you receive during a dental exam make it an absolutely integral part your dental health. At our dental offices in Hastings and Doniphan, NE, we offer the following services during each exam:

  • Oral Cancer Screenings
    Late diagnosis is one of the reasons why oral cancer is so deadly. At Hastings Family Dental, we take the proactive approach by screening for oral cancer during each exam. By doing this early and frequently, we’ll able to provide patients with greater odds of beating oral cancer.
  • Professional Cleanings
    Not even the most advanced toothbrush can take the place of the metal tools used by a dental hygienist. While a toothbrush is ideal for removing plaque and debris, hardened plaque is too difficult for a toothbrush to remove. During your routine cleaning, our hygienists will remove any plaque to prevent the development of gum disease or tooth decay.
  • Comprehensive Smile Evaluation
    Another valuable reason to visit the dentist is that they can accurately assess your dental condition and make recommendations for treatment. This means that if we notice early signs of gingivitis, cavities, or other problems, our team can begin treatment early before symptoms get worse.

Why can't you skip a dental exam?

Skipping a dental exam means that you’re not getting screened for oral cancer, and the tartar isn’t getting removed from your teeth. While one rescheduled appointment isn’t a big deal, missing them consistently can take a toll on your overall dental health. Spare yourself the pain and expense of poor oral health by attending your biannual dental appointments.


The Importance of a Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings are a vital part of your overall oral health. Our team has expert skills and tools that enable us to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums. Here are some advantages of a professional dental cleaning:

  • Dental cleanings remove tartar which is too tough to remove with a toothbrush
  • Primary goals of dental cleanings are to prevent cavities and tooth loss
  • Your smile will be whiter after a dental cleaning
  • You’ll save money by not needing expensive procedures in the future

As you can see, there are lots of good reasons to ensure that you make your regularly scheduled dental appointments. Attending your dental appointments at least twice per year will keep your oral health in top form and decrease the chances of needing expensive surgeries.

FAQs

How many times a day should I brush my teeth?

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth two times a day. Depending on your diet and brushing technique, our dental hygienist can make a recommendation for your individual health needs.

How often should you floss?

We suggest that you floss at least once every day to break up and remove plaque between teeth, and the gum line where a toothbrush can’t reach. With brushing alone, you’re missing up to 40 percent of plaque and bacteria build up between your teeth.

How long should I brush my teeth?

Whether you’re using a manual or electric toothbrush, brushing should take about two minutes or more. Also, remember to replace your toothbrush at least every six months to ensure it’s cleaning your teeth effectively.

How often should I visit my dentist for a checkup?

Generally, you should visit your dentist for a routine checkup every six months. At Hastings Family Dental, our hygienists will determine how often you should visit depending on your oral health and dental hygiene habits.

Is it common to get gum disease?

Almost 75 percent of Americans suffer from some form of gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, without knowing it. If left untreated, gum disease can develop into a more serious form, causing the gums and bone to recede and connective tissues to break down.

This can result in tooth decay, bone loss, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, our dentists can treat gum disease with periodontal therapy and restore your oral health.

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