Here at Palmyra Family Dentistry in Palmyra, NY, Dr. Haremza and Dr. Harrison want to ensure that you have the healthiest smile possible. Book an appointment at our family dental clinic today!

About Our Dental Exams

Some of the easiest ways to prevent the decline of your oral health are to maintain a regular schedule of having your teeth cleaned by one our professional dental hygienists and to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. A professional dental cleaning will minimize the accumulation of plaque and calculus (tartar) on your teeth, which in turn is the cause of gingivitis and periodontitis.

When you visit Palmyra Family Dentistry for a routine dental exam, our dentists and dental hygienists will also provide you with instructions for personalized home care. By working together, we can prevent the advance of gum disease and ensure that you have healthy teeth and a beautiful smile in the years ahead.

It is important to know that research shows a direct connection between poor oral health and heart disease, as well as other serious medical conditions like stroke, diabetes, and more. Our dentists and dental hygienists can aid you in determining the dental treatment best suited to your specific oral care needs.

If you have any questions about your dental health, speak with one of our professionals here at Palmyra Family Dentistry today. Or, if you’re due for a dental exam, contact us to set up your next dental appointment!

What Happens In a Dental Exam?

During a dental exam at Palmyra Family Dentistry, either Dr. Haremza or Dr. Harrison will first check and possibly X-ray your teeth to look for any cavities, plaque, and tartar. They will next examine gums, using a special tool to measure the spaces between your teeth. Afterwards, they will use a scraping tool to remove any tartar before polishing and flossing your teeth.

The time you spend outside of the dentist office is just as important as the time you spend with us at Palmyra Family Dentistry. Before you leave,. Dr. Haremza or Dr. Harris will provide you with tips for taking care of your oral health at home in-between visits.

5 Reasons You Need Regular Dental Checkups

The American Dental Association recommends that you schedule a dental checkup every six months. Why so often? Research has shown that regular dental visits are essential for maintaining the health of your teeth. Here are five of the most important reasons why regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining your oral health. 

• Detection of Plaque, Tartar, and Cavities: One of the main reasons why the American Dental Association recommends routine dental check ups is that they can help prevent plaque and tartar, which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Even the most diligent daily brusher and flosser can still fall victim to these common forms of tooth decay. A cleaning is certainly less expensive and uncomfortable than a filling, so be sure to get in touch with us now if it’s been a while since your last dental exam. 

• Detection of Oral Cancer: Oral cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if detected too late. Thankfully, an early stage diagnosis is usually easily treatable. The best way to ensure that you detect oral cancer as early as possible  is to schedule regular dental checkups. Recognizing oral cancer in its early stages is difficult for those who do not know what to look for but, fortunately, your dentist is highly trained to recognize signs and symptoms.

• Prevention of Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar not only cause tooth decay but also gum erosion, which can eventually turn into gingivitis, and then gum disease. At this point, you will likely experience painful swelling, bleeding, and soreness, as well as teeth loosening or falling out altogether.These kinds of symptoms usually require painful, expensive  treatment methods, such as extremely deep cleaning or even deep cleaning. Regular dental checkups can help you catch and address gingivitis before it gets out of hand.
• Setting Good Habits: There are many bad  habits that can negatively affect your oral health. Apart from the obvious ones of not brushing or flossing enough, habits such as chewing your nails, grinding your teeth, drinking excessive amounts of coffee, and smoking can also threaten your dental health. At a dental exam, your dentist will check for any damage caused by these habits and inform you about how to alter your lifestyle to prevent any more destruction. They will also advise you on proper brushing and flossing techniques so you can make the most out of your oral hygiene routine. 

• Improving Your Appearance: A white, sparkling smile conveys to the world that you take care of yourself. On the other hand yellow teeth, receding gums, and unpleasant breath all give the impression that you have allowed your hygiene to slip. Regular visits to the dentist not only help you feel great, but they also help you look great as well. In addition to routine cleaning, Palmyra Family Dentistry also offers a variety of cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers, orthodontics, teeth whitening, and more. Ask your dentists about these services at your next checkup to learn more or get in touch with us today.

Take Control of Your Oral Health with Regular Dental Exams

If it’s been six months or longer since your last visit to the dentist, contact our team at Palmyra Family Dentistry today. We promise to provide you with a comprehensive dental exam and cleaning to leave you feeling clean, confident, and beautiful. New patients are always welcome.