Maintaining a healthy smile is crucial to your overall health and well-being. Combined with attentive brushing and flossing at home, we provide dental cleanings to remove hardened plaque, tartar and bacteria to help achieve and sustain healthy teeth and gums. We prioritize the importance of dental cleanings and routine exams.

Continuing good habits with flossing and brushing your teeth can be beneficial in many different ways. This includes:

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• Prevent cavities and protect your periodontal health

• Help reverse gingivitis and restore gum conditions

• Support overall health 

At a typical hygiene appointment, most patients need new dental X-rays every 6 to 12 months. However if you have an issue that requires regular monitoring, you may need X-rays more frequently. These are done by our hygienist or hygiene assistant. Routine X-rays are essential for the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions. 

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After getting routine X-rays, the hygienist will use a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. While hand instruments are designed to scrape harmful deposits off the surface of the teeth, an ultrasonic scaler uses a steady stream of water coupled with varying vibration frequencies to clean them. For effective results, our hygienists may use both methods in combination with each other.

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After polishing the teeth to remove superficial stains, and flossing all contacts between your teeth. Our patients will receive a physical exam of the mouth. Reviewing the X-rays, the dentist or hygienist will check for signs of oral issues, such as gum disease, cavities, or any other abnormalities. If there is an issue that occurs, our doctor will inform you of the detailed

treatment options.

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Dental cleanings play an essential role in preventive care. At Meramec Valley Dental, we help patients establish strong foundation habits

for your oral health.