At Prairie Mall Dental Clinic in Grande Prairie, we believe regular oral examinations and hygiene cleanings are cornerstones of excellent preventive care.
Oral Examinations
Ideally, you will visit your dentist twice a year, so they can identify any oral health issues or conditions and create a plan to treat them appropriately,
During your exam, your dentist will thoroughly inspect the health of your gums, teeth, jaw and bite. If required, exams may also include an oral cancer screening, x-rays and other diagnostic procedures.
Oral Cancer Screening
Any part of the mouth or surrounding tissues can become infected with oral cancer. During your exam, your dentist will check your face, lips, neck, tongue, tissues, throat and gums for any signs or symptoms of oral cancer, which are difficult to see with the naked eye.
Oral Health Care at Home
Ensure you brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day to keep your smile healthy between dental appointments.
Hygiene Cleaning
Before or following your exam, your dental hygienist will complete a deep cleaning of your teeth and gums to prevent and treat oral diseases.
To start, a scaler will be used to remove any plaque buildup and tartar. Next, your dentist will apply a coarse toothpaste to a polisher so any leftover plaque or stains can be removed. Your cleaning will be capped off by a thorough flossing of your teeth and gums.
Fluoride Treatment
If you or your child are at high risk of tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to rebuild the minerals in your tooth enamel to reverse or prevent tooth decay.