Dental Exams & Cleanings
Regular dental exams and cleanings at Fontenot Family Dentistry are the foundation for excellent oral health. When you visit us for these services, our dentist can catch issues early, which typically results in less need for invasive treatment.
At Fontenot Family Dentistry, we care about more than just your teeth; we care about your overall health and well-being. Your oral health and general health are interconnected, and routine dental visits allow us to address issues before they negatively impact your body.
Dental Exam
Dr. Fontenot and his associates performs routine dental exams to understand your dental needs. These appointments are also an excellent time to ask questions and share any oral health concerns you're experiencing, such as bleeding gums or tooth pain.
Your six-month dental exam at our Carencro or Scott, LA, dental office is comprehensive and involves several steps:
- Medical and dental history review — We ask about changes in your oral and general health since your last visit and request a current list of your prescription medications.
- Dental examination — Our dentists share live intraoral images with you during your exam, so you see what he sees and can better understand your dental needs.
- Oral cancer screening — The sooner oral cancer is found and treated, the more positive the long-term prognosis is. That's why every checkup includes a screening to check for signs of abnormalities.
- Dental x-rays — In some cases, Dr. Fontenot or our associates may recommend digital x-rays to update your record or diagnose an issue.
- Treatment plan review — Our dentists will discuss his treatment recommendations with you and explain them in detail.
Teeth Cleanings with a Gentle Hygienist
Our patients love the gentle, friendly care they receive from our hygienists during routine teeth cleanings. You can be confident they'll do everything to ensure you have a comfortable experience.
Remove Plaque and Tartar
Plaque and tartar that linger on your teeth can lead to cavities and gum disease. Even if you brush and floss conscientiously, plaque can build up in hard-to-reach places between teeth.
Also, plaque that remains after brushing and flossing turns into a hard substance called tartar or calculus that clings to your teeth. Only a hygienist can remove tartar using specialized dental instruments to help you maintain healthy gums.
Polish Your Teeth
Our hygienist checks your gums for signs of gingivitis, such as swollen or bleeding gums. They also use a special polishing tool to remove surface stains and leave your teeth feeling clean and fresh.
Provide Hygiene Instructions
Even if you’re an oral hygiene pro, having an occasional refresher is always a good idea. Our hygienist will demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques and explain what oral hygiene aids to use.
How to Protect Your Oral Health at Home
Since we may only see you twice a year, the most crucial part of preventive dentistry is how you handle your oral health needs the other 363 days. Following these five steps minimizes your family's risk for cavities and gum disease and ensures healthy smiles:
- Brush and floss regularly to remove plaque
- Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria
- Eat a healthy diet and limit acidic and sugary foods
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
- Wear a mouthguard if you play sports to avoid injury
Schedule Your Next Exam and Teeth Cleaning with Us
If you're due for your next dental checkup, we invite you to schedule an appointment for an exam and teeth cleaning. Please call our Carencro or Scott, LA, dental office so we can get you on our schedule.
