Thank you, Laura!
This month we are celebrating Laura, our dental hygienist’s 17th anniversary working in our office! She has cared for thousands of our patients over the years and we look forward to having Laura be an integral part of our practice for many, many years to come. To honor Laura this month, we’d like to share with you some of the important things Laura does for you at your routine visits, whether you realize it or not…
We all know that visiting us only when you have a problem with your teeth is not enough to remain healthy. That’s why your preventive visits with Laura are so important. But did you know that Laura is doing much more than cleaning during your visit? Here are things you probably don’t know is happening during your hygiene appointment:
Scraping Away Plaque and Tartar:
During your visit, Laura uses specialized tools to scrape away excess plaque and tartar from your teeth. This helps remove the bacteria from your mouth that can cause gum disease and makes your teeth appear brighter.
Polishing Your Teeth:
Polishing your teeth not only makes them look smooth and white but also prevents further plaque and tartar from sticking to your teeth.
Performing a Cancer Screening:
Oral cancer is a deadly disease that kills nearly 10,000 Americans each year. Laura will perform an oral cancer screening that focuses on your head, neck, lymph nodes, palate, cheeks, and tongue for any concerning signs.
Examining Your Gums:
Laura will examine your gums and look for any signs of bleeding or swelling. This also includes probing your gum pockets. Swelling, bleeding, and large gum pockets are all signs of unhealthy gums and likely indicate gum disease.
Checking Your Tongue:
Our tongue is also as important as our teeth. Laura will thoroughly examine your tongue and make any notes if there are any noticeable changes. It is important to know that your tongue is normal in size and texture since its a key component reflective of not only your oral health but also your overall health.
Examining Your Tonsils:
Aside from your tongue, your tonsils are also examined by Laura to look for any signs of possible infections.
Your dental health is connected to your overall health. It is important that you stay current with your recommended dental visits each year and not just when you experience a problem with your oral health. Make an appointment to visit us today by calling 312-943-6444 or visit us online.
