Why “treat” when you can “prevent”? A healthy mouth starts with routine dental check-ups

Dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease are the leading causes of tooth loss. Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic childhood condition, outpacing the likes of hay fever and asthma. As patients get older, gum disease presents an even greater risk than tooth decay; the CDC reports around half of the American adults aged 30 and older have some form of gum disease. 

The good news is these and other oral conditions can largely be prevented with consistent, quality oral care. Sioux City Family Dentistry is proud to be your “dental home” in Sioux City, Iowa. We treat cleaning and prevention with the seriousness it deserves while providing a kind, non-judgmental source for all things oral health. In fact, there is nothing quite as gratifying as putting formerly fearful or anxious patients at ease. We encourage you to get to know or reacquaint yourself with modern, painless, hassle- and stress-free dental care. 

The professional dental cleaning from a dentist “near me”

Cleanings by our skilled and gentle dental hygienist are a critical part of a preventive hygiene program. These cleanings take place during your regular dental check-up. For healthy patients who do not have active gum disease or other risk factors (such as smoking), check-ups occur once every six months – two times per year. Our expert cleanings remove stubborn plaque build-up. This tartar or calculus cannot be removed with standard toothbrushes and home care. Additionally, by removing surface stains and bacteria, we aid in keeping your teeth looking great and stain-free and your mouth feeling and smelling fresh! 

The oral exam 

No check-up is complete without Dr. Nhu Le evaluating the state and function of your teeth, gums, jaws, and surrounding oral and maxillofacial tissues and structures. If she finds that you have conditions such as gum disease, you may be a good candidate for scaling and root planing. SRP is a “deep clean” for your teeth, which involves removing plaque and bacteria from below the gum line. The root surfaces are also smoothed to prevent bacteria from attaching to rough roots. 

Screenings are conducted regularly to check for persistent sores, patches, lumps, and other abnormalities that may be indicative of pre-cancerous lesions or oral and pharyngeal cancers. 

The guidance you can trust with professional dental cleanings!

We provide credible recommendations on cleaning techniques and products tailored to your or a family member’s unique needs. During your check-up, we may even discuss or administer professional preventive services that are only available at your dental professional’s office. These services include fluoride to build up the minerals in the teeth and sealants to protect decay-prone back teeth from cavities. 

Do not delay starting a healthy habit or getting on the right track. Call Sioux City Family Dentistry at (712) 639-6665 or request an appointment online. We look forward to meeting and partnering with you and yours to ensure regular teeth cleaning and dental plaque removal.