Good dental hygiene isn’t only about your teeth and gums. Research shows that non-oral health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and bone loss, are associated with poor dental hygiene. At Balboa Island Dentistry, in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Stephen Alfano has been providing expert dental hygiene and overall oral care to patients for over two decades.

Dental Hygiene Q & A

How Often Should a Patient Have a Dental Hygiene Examination?

A patient should visit his or her dentist at least once every six months for an examination and a professional cleaning. The professional cleaning will remove plaque, bacteria and other substances that have the potential to cause tooth decay and other serious issues. At the examination, the dentist will evaluate the teeth for any cavities, decay or other issues that may affect the health of the person’s teeth. The dentist will then schedule another appointment to perform dental procedures if required.

Are Any Tests Conducted at the Checkup?

The patient may receive x-rays at the appointment.

Will the Dentist Look for Gum Disease?

During the dental hygiene appointment, the dentist will examine both the teeth and gums. Dr. Alfano or our licensed registered dental hygienist may perform a root scaling to treat gum disease at the appointment. The dentist may apply antibiotics into the gums to treat the problem. The dentist will educate the patient on the severity of the gum disease and its significance.

Will the Dentist Provide Any Other Care During a Dental Hygiene Visit?

The dentist will ask the patient a series of questions related to the patient’s diet and dental health practices. The dentist may recommend changes to the patient’s diet and oral health regimen to promote better dental health.

Why Does a Patient Need Regular Checkups?

A patient can’t brush his or her teeth thoroughly enough to remove all bacteria and food particles. The bacteria have the potential to eat away at the jawbone and cause tooth loss. It can travel into the bloodstream and lead to heart problems. The dentist can detect problems early enough to treat the issue before serious complications occur.