Just as you need to look after the rest of your body to look good, you need to care for your teeth and gums.  When you visit your dentist for dental cleaning and prevention treatment, he will examine your teeth fully and usually take a full set of x-rays at the same time; these will allow him to see what is going on inside your gums and jaw bone.

Once completed, he will evaluate the findings and put together a plan of action.  This will involve you visiting the practice for regular check-ups. The treatment may include such things as:

• Cleaning and polishing your teeth
• Checking your gums
• Screening for oral cancer
• Taking X-rays
• Examining existing dental work

Cleaning and polishing – this will remove tartar from your teeth as well as plaque, which is formed from bacteria.  If left in place, inflammation will eventually occur.  He will then polish your teeth to make them look good, removing stains at the same time.

Evaluating your gums – your gums and the bone underneath your teeth will be carefully checked to ensure that there are no problems or any disease developing.

Screening for oral cancer – your dentist will check for signs on your mouth, tongue, throat, gums and even the neck.

X-rays – these will allow the dentist to check inside your jaw bone and teeth for such things as bone loss, problems with development, teeth in the wrong position, tumors, abscesses, and any other hidden problems.

Existing dental work – he will check all fillings, crowns, bridges, implants etc. for any damage or signs of wear and tear.