Dental Cleanings & Prevention in Brentwood, TN

A preventive (recare) program is a joint cooperative effort between you and our team to preserve your natural teeth, gums, and bones of the oral area by preventing the onset, progress, and recurrence of dental diseases and conditions. Preventing dental disease starts at home with good oral hygiene and a balanced diet. It is continued in our dental office by the efforts of Dr. Kussman and the dental hygienists as they promote, restore, and maintain your oral health.

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Regular dental exams, cleanings, and x-rays are all part of an effective prevention program. Other great preventive treatments include sealants and fluoride. Prevention helps avoid serious and costly dental problems and is the key to having a healthy, confident, and beautiful smile.

How Often Do I Need a Professional Dental Cleaning?

For both children and adults, professional dental cleaning is recommended every six months. For patients who need extra oral care, this frequency may be changed to every three months.

How Do I Know When I Need a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Even if you are great at visiting your dentist regularly every six months, you still may experience some signs and symptoms that your oral health is not at its best, and you may be due for professional dental care. If you experience any of the following, visit Dr. Kussman as soon as possible:

  • Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
  • Inflamed gums
  • Gum pockets
  • Loose teeth
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks
  • Gum sensitivity
  • Receding gums
  • Tootach
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Pus between teeth

Does A Dental Cleaning Hurt?

Professional dental cleanings do not involve any pain at all. While there may be some sensitivity or pressure applied during your cleaning, these sensations are normal. Dr. Kussman and her highly experienced team of dental professionals use high-quality, precise tools that help improve oral health and minimize any pain in your mouth.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?

While the duration of your dental cleaning may vary, depending on when your last visit to the dentist was, when your last cleaning was, and the current state of your oral health, the average dental cleaning usually takes about an hour.

The dental cleaning process involves X-rays, a look at your dental history, a quick exam of your current oral health, tartar and plaque removal, and thorough flossing and brushing. If you experience any issues during your cleaning procedure, such as gum sensitivity, your dental professional may slow down the procedure to address any discomfort. Overall, a dental cleaning should be at most 90 minutes.

What Conditions Can Dental Care Prevent?

Visiting your dentist regularly is a great way to keep your oral health in optimal condition. When you go to regular dental cleanings, your dentist will be able to assess your oral health, address any current problems, and catch potential problems before they get worse and compromise the health of any of your teeth. Regular dental care can help prevent the following oral conditions:

  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Tooth loss
  • Cavities
  • Plaque, bacteria, tartar buildup
  • Jaw pain

Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is available during your visit. Nitrous oxide works very rapidly – relaxation and pain-killing properties develop after 2 or 3 minutes. There’s no “hangover” effect – the gas is eliminated from the body within 3 to 5 minutes after the gas supply is stopped. You can safely drive home and will not need an escort.

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