At AHSmiles, Dr. Engelberg provides comprehensive dental services including routine preventative care. Routine preventative care is essential for maintaining your dental health for many years to come. If it has been a while since you’ve sat in the dental chair, or if you are unsure what to expect during your first appointment at our Arlington Heights, IL dentist office, keep reading below to find out what you can expect during your dental cleaning:
Plaque & Tartar Removal
When you are called back to the dental exam room, a trained dental hygienist will begin your dental cleaning by removing any plaque or tartar buildup surrounding your gum line. Plaque and tartar are hardened food residues that have been left behind on your smile. Depending on how long you go without a dental cleaning, the plaque and tartar contain bacteria that may eat away at your healthy soft tissues if not removed. As your hygienist cleans your teeth, they may point out spots in your smile where they are noticing the most buildup. This will give you a good idea of where to spend a little extra time when brushing or flossing at home. Once all of the plaque and tartar are removed from your smile, they will brush and polish your teeth to prepare them for the dental exam.
Dental Exam
Once your dental cleaning is complete, Dr. Engelberg will come in and examine the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. If any dental concerns have been noted during your appointment, he will address these concerns and offer you a treatment plan that best meets your needs. If you have experienced any toothaches, jaw pain, or dental damages outside of the dentist’s office, please make sure to mention this during your dental exam. Your dentist needs to know of any symptoms you’ve experienced to effectively plan your treatment and ensure that you are in good dental health. Once you’ve been presented with your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Engelberg or anyone on our staff any questions you have about what to expect. We are here to help you feel comfortable and confident with your necessary dental procedures.
Diagnostic X-rays
Patients should have diagnostic x-rays taken once a year. These x-rays are essential for keeping track of developing and aging smiles. Our goal is to address minor issues as soon as possible before they develop into major dental concerns. Your dentist will take a look at your x-rays to get a good idea of what is going on beneath your soft tissues. While some dental concerns cause visible side effects, others may only be revealed with the proper imaging. If it has been over six months since the last time you visited the dentist, schedule your routine preventative care appointment today. Dr. Engelberg welcomes patients from Deerfield, Northbrook, Long Grove, and other surrounding communities. Please schedule an appointment online.