The Dr. Porter Difference: A Proper Dental Cleaning Examination
What to Expect at a Dental Cleaning Appointment
My goal is to keep our patients as healthy as possible, and the best way to do so is through ongoing dental care and teaching our patients how to practice good oral hygiene at home.
Adults should have their teeth cleaned and examined twice a year, Good oral health is important regardless of how old you are and as people age, their risk for an oral infection continues to increase. This is in part because, as teeth age, the protective enamel starts to wear away, and it can become easier to get a cavity. The best way to combat this is by brushing and flossing throughout the day in addition to visiting the dentist on a regular basis.
The Dr. Porter Difference
In fact, when you get a postcard in the mail offering you an extremely discounted teeth cleaning and/or examination, do not expect the services offered to be performed by any of the dentists in the practice. These appointments are almost always scheduled with a dental hygienist.
Do not get us wrong! There are some very talented hygienists working in the field today, BUT wouldn’t it be nice if your actual dentist took the time to perform your exams and cleanings?
Most people prefer, although they are not usually given an option, their dentist to perform their exams and cleanings. It simply makes sense for the dentist to perform patient exams and/or cleanings because, ultimately, he will be the one performing any procedures (if any) any, deemed necessary at said dental examinations.
Well, we have good news for you. Dr. Porter is the ONLY dentist in Fountain Hills (and the surrounding areas) that performs his own comprehensive dental exams and cleanings! (Oh, and in case you were wondering, patients are not charged more to have Dr. Porter himself complete their exams.)
In fact, if you are not convinced to set an appointment to come see us yet, there is one more thing you should know. Dr. Porter offers one of the lowest priced specials for new patients exams, x-ray, and cleanings, in Fountain Hills and the surrounding areas.
So, not only are you receiving an exam and cleaning from the dentist whose name is on the door, but you are receiving one of the best discounts for dental work in all of Fountain Hills and the Phoenix valley! See below for more information on our $65 dollar new patient special. We can not wait to hear from you! Call 480.816.6537 (if on mobile, press the ‘contact now’ button at the top of the page) to schedule and appointment and experience the Dr. Porter difference.
Dental Cleaning and Examinations for Adults
Dr. Porter's #1 Dental Hygiene Tip
I recommend using TePe tooth picks between brushes. TePe toothpicks are as effective, if not more so, as good old dental floss. Carry these in your pocket to quickly and easily remove food debris from your teeth after meals. TePe toothpicks can even be used in lieu of dental floss if you have a hard time with traditional flossing. I demonstrate how to use this affordable, effective dental hygiene tool for all my patients at their initial examination.
If you want to be the apple of your dentist’s eye (at least Doctor Porter’s eye!) you should try Doctor Porter’s Dental Hygiene Tip! Clearing debris from your teeth between meals is one of the most effective things you can do to maintain good oral health! Purchase this innovative dental hygiene tool below.
We offer flexible appointment times so that you can schedule an appointment around your work or family schedule, making it easier than ever to get your teeth cleaned.
Dental Cleaning for Sensitive Teeth
At Acute Dental, Dr. Porter practices gentle dentistry and provides teeth cleanings for patients with sensitive teeth. Many adults avoid visiting the dentist because they are concerned that their teeth will hurt or feel worse during the exam or subsequent cleaning.
When working with the right dentist, you can feel comfortable regardless of how sensitive your teeth are. We offer a variety of sedation methods so that you don’t have to feel anything while getting your dental cleaning and examinations. For an extra fee, you can request nitrous oxide during your teeth cleaning appointment if that helps you. If you require medication to help you relax for to numb the pain, Dr. Porter will work with you to develop a proper treatment plan to make sure you stay comfortable during your cleaning.
Let us know ahead of time if you are struggling with sensitive teeth, so we can schedule accordingly!
It is important to understand the reason that teeth become sensitive. Very often, it is due to the enamel on the outside of the teeth wearing away. Enamel can wear away due to age, what you eat, and improper oral health care. While brushing with desensitizing toothpaste can help, you need to continue visiting the dentist to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy. Otherwise, the sensitivity can increase.
During your dental exam, let us know about the discomfort you have been feeling so that we can discuss ways to reduce it by using methods such as a fluoride treatment or sealant.
Dental Cleaning for Preventing Emergencies
As a year or two goes by, infections can develop that can create a painful situation and lead to dental emergencies. For example, a minor cavity can be corrected with minimal discomfort but if the infection spreads into the center of the tooth the dental pulp can become infected and a root canal will become necessary.
Fortunately, these types of infections can typically be avoided by scheduling an appointment twice a year with Dr. Porter.
It is important to keep in mind that healthy teeth are also less likely to become damaged or injured so by staying in good health; you can prevent teeth from becoming cracked or chipped during an accident.
Further Education During Dental Cleaning and Examinations
We recommend that you use a soft toothbrush to brush your teeth twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste. This will keep harmful sugar and bacteria off of your teeth and the fluoride will help to strengthen them.
You should also floss daily to get food particles and bacteria out of hard-to-reach places. (Note: Dr. Porter does not endorse the use of water flossers as an alternative to using old fashioned string floss or the TePe Picks mentioned above.)
Following up with an antibacterial mouthwash will help to kill any remaining germs. If you are having trouble removing all the food particles from your teeth during cleaning, Dr. Porter is always happy to give you brushing tips at your next scheduled appointment!
What Foods or Drinks Should I Avoid Between Cleanings?
Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat a diet that contains dairy products, lean protein, green vegetables, and complex carbs so that your body gets the nutrients it needs to stay healthy. This is vital for your oral health and your oral health is vital for your overall health and well being.
We can provide additional tips and information during your dental cleaning and examinations.
For additional tips, or if you have any questions about how you can improve your dental health, schedule an appointment today!
If you are a new patient, be sure to mention this article for a $65 new patient special,* which includes x-rays,* teeth cleaning,* and a full examination.
New Patient Special ONLY $65
Inlcudes X-rays, Comprehensive Exam, and Cleaning
*NEW PATIENTS ONLY. Cannot be used with insurance or other discounts. Insurance will be billed if applicable.
*X-rays include bitewings, diagnostic and a panoramic x-ray. If you would like a copy of your x-rays, an additional fee will apply.
*Does not include debriment.
*Exclusions apply. See above.