Preventive Dentistry – Lansing, MI

Each dental cleaning will start with an examination where we carefully check your teeth and gums for any abnormalities that might point to an oral health issue. Typically, at least one of your biannual visits will involve taking an X-ray. The next step is to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth using a metal instrument called a scaler; once that’s done, we’ll use a special brush and polishing toothpaste to make sure the teeth are cleaned as thoroughly as possible.

Learn More About Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings

You might not have known it, but you’ve most likely already had an oral cancer screening performed when visiting the dentist in the past! During every checkup, we look for warning signs of cancer that might manifest in the mouth, such as unusual lumps. An intraoral camera allows us to carefully examine every inch of your mouth and show you our findings. If we have any reason to think you might be showing signs of oral cancer, we’ll help you make the arrangements to receive a proper diagnosis.

If you’ve never heard of bruxism, it is simply the term used for grinding or clenching your teeth at night. On the surface that might seem harmless, but in reality, it can gradually wear down your enamel and eventually cause it to fracture. If we notice signs of bruxism during your checkup, we can take a digital impression of your mouth in order to design a nightguard. This simple oral appliance is worn while you sleep so that it can prevent your upper and lower teeth from touching each, keeping them safe throughout the night. 

Fluoride has long been an essential part of oral health care. It helps support healthy enamel and protects it from the bacteria that can cause cavities. You typically get most of the fluoride you need from various foods and water, but patients who have a particularly high risk for cavities can receive a fluoride treatment during their regular checkups. This process takes only a few minutes and simply involves applying concentrated fluoride directly to the teeth. Once the enamel has had a chance to absorb the fluoride, you’ll start enjoying the benefits right away!

What are you brushing your teeth with at home? Are you using any type of mouthwash? Stocking up on the right oral hygiene products is extremely important if you want to make sure your teeth are properly cared for each and every day. Our dental office uses reliable, time-tested brands like Crest and Oral-B, both of which are shown to provide excellent protection against cavities, plaque, gum problems, and other common dental issues. If you’re looking to improve your personal oral care routine, be sure to mention the products you use during your visit to see if we might recommend any substitutions or additions.