Maintain Optimal Oral Health with Regular
Dental Cleanings and Exams
The dentist and dental assistants at Robert W. Hessberger, DDS have decades of experience cleaning teeth and identifying conditions such as decay and gum disease during routine exams. At their Chicago, IL, office, Dr. Hessberger and his team can provide a professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, and stop infection in its early stages. As a practice committed to providing the highest quality preventive care, the staff looks forward to helping you achieve and maintain an attractive, healthy smile.
Why Are Cleanings and Exams Valuable?
Professional dental cleanings and exams are the cornerstone of preventative dentistry and are the simplest way to achieve good oral health. Daily brushing and flossing removes plaque from the teeth and gums. Plaque is the sticky film that contains bacteria that builds up on your teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease. Unfortunately, your daily at-home oral hygiene routine cannot eliminate all infection-causing bacteria. Plaque and debris collect along hard-to-reach areas and uneven surfaces of teeth, and require professional removal at a dental office.
Dr. Hessberger and his experienced team can address oral health concerns before they lead to complications and extensive treatment.
During your checkup, Dr. Hessberger will perform a thorough examination. Potential problems can be detected in their initial stages, reducing your chances of complications. This can also save you money on future treatments, such as tooth extractions. Poor oral health has been linked to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, making early detection and treatment critical to your overall well-being.
What to Expect during Your Cleaning and Exam
Dr. Hessberger recommends that patients three years of age and older attend a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Some patients may need to be seen more frequently, particularly for conditions that require regular monitoring and treatment such as gum disease.
Dental Cleaning
During your cleaning, the hygienist will use a scaling instrument that gently removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and gumline. Your teeth will then be polished using a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste. The hygienist will then floss your teeth. You may receive a fluoride treatment as an added level of protection against dental decay. Your hygienist may also demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques to help you achieve effective at-home care.
Dental X-rays
We may request that x-rays be taken of your oral structure to evaluate the strength of your teeth, existing restorations, and jaw. If we detect signs of damage or decay, Dr. Hessberger can recommend proper treatment.
Dental Examination
Dr. Hessberger will conduct a thorough exam of your teeth and gums to identify infection, decay, or disease. An oral cancer screening may be performed, which involves looking and feeling for any irregularities in and around the mouth and jaw. An examination of your head, neck, and jaw may also be done to detect signs of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
Protect Your Oral Health
Dr. Hessberger and his experienced team can address oral health concerns before they lead to complications and extensive treatment. To schedule your dental cleaning and examination, call our office at (773) 792-5562 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.