Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Bristol, CT

Prevent Problems and Preserve Your Smile

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You probably already know that brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily is a simple and effective way to prevent dental concerns. Although it’s incredibly important to maintain a consistent at-home hygiene routine, you should also see your dentist every 6 months for a checkup and cleaning to prevent problems and preserve your smile. Many oral issues, like tooth decay and gum disease, start small and then progress over time. While you might miss the early signs, our team at Bristol Family Dental can spot any areas of concern and treat them before they get worse. If you would like to schedule an appointment, you’re welcome to contact us and we’d be happy to accommodate you.

Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?

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If you believe your teeth are in good condition, you might feel tempted to skip routine visits with your dentist. Unfortunately, you’re putting your oral health at risk if you do. Although brushing and flossing are helpful, it’s possible to develop problems where you can’t see them to clean them like behind your molars, between your teeth, or under your gumline. Our team provides all the services necessary to get a full picture of your dental condition that you might miss at home. Then, we work to ensure that your teeth and gums are in top condition so that they’re less prone to developing tooth decay, gum disease, or other issues down the road.

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup

Nose to chin view of an open mouth with a dental mirror

Although it might vary based on your circumstances, you can typically expect your dental checkup to include:

A visual examination of your teeth, gums, any existing dental work (dental implants, bridges, dentures, etc.), and your bite alignment.
Screening the soft tissues in your mouth for signs of oral cancer.
Taking X-rays or other images as needed to get a comprehensive look both above and below your gums.
Providing treatment recommendations for any problem areas.
Answering any questions you may have about suggested solutions or your overall condition.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Nose to chin view of a smile being polished by hygienist

Next, our hygienists will professionally clean your teeth which involves:

Using special instruments to remove plaque and tartar buildup from between your teeth and along your gum line. This prevents cavities and gum disease and reduces the risk of chronic bad breath.
Polishing your teeth to remove minor surface stains and blemishes to your smile sparkles.
Thoroughly flossing your teeth to eradicate bacteria and unwanted food particles. If you don’t floss regularly, you might experience slight bleeding or sensitivity.
Fluoride treatment if necessary or recommended to strengthen your enamel. To do so, we simply rinse your mouth with a concentrated fluoride solution for a few minutes.