The Need for Six-Month Dental Checkups & Cleanings

It is said that prevention is the best medicine.  I’m Dr. Jeffrey Allen, a Pella, IA dentist, and I believe this statement is 100 percent accurate. I highly recommend that all of my patients come in for a six-month checkup and cleaning.
During your checkup, I will inspect your mouth for potential or existing problems. Early detection is essential for conservative treatment.  I’ll check for gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and will examine your bite (how upper and lower teeth fit together). Bite problems cause difficulties with the jaw joint, bruxism (grinding or clenching of your teeth), and abfrication (loss of tooth structure that forms notching near the gum line).
At your cleaning, our hygienist will remove s sticky plaque, and hardened plaque called calculus or tartar. Plaque is the yellowish substance that naturally occurs in your mouth. Plaque emit bacteria that aggravate gums and lead to periodontal disease. Your hygienist will advise you if your gums show signs of disease. She will also advise you of proper brushing, flossing, and the best oral products to use at home.
I will also discuss with you the relationship between a healthy diet and dental health. We can discuss foods to avoid and foods to implement into your diet. If you have issues such as snoring, sleep apnea, or chronic headaches, they may be dental related, so please let me know. Also, if you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry, we can discuss your concerns at your checkup.
Following the recommendation of the American Dental Association, I encourage my patients to stick a six month routine for routine cleanings and exams. If you need to schedule your checkup, call my dental office in Pella, IA at (641)628-1121. We’re accepting new patients today!