Cleanings and Prevention in Newport News, VA

At Hartman Dentistry in Newport News, VA, we are committed to providing comprehensive cleaning and preventive care to help you maintain a healthy smile for life. Dr. Hartman and Dr. Sibirtsev, both skilled and compassionate dentists, offer a wide range of services designed to prevent oral health issues before they arise. Regular cleanings and dental exams are essential components of a proactive oral health routine, and at Hartman Dentistry, we use the latest technologies to ensure that your care is as thorough and effective as possible.

Dental Exams and Professional Cleaning in Newport News, VA

A dental exam is the foundation of any successful oral care regimen, and professional cleaning ensures that your teeth and gums are free from plaque and tartar buildup. During a dental exam at Hartman Dentistry, Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your oral health, looking for early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other dental issues that could develop into more serious conditions if left untreated. These exams allow us to detect problems early and address them before they lead to pain, discomfort, or costly treatments.

Professional cleanings are just as important as exams in maintaining your dental health. Even with regular brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time, especially in areas that are hard to reach. Our team will use special tools to remove plaque, tartar, and stains that can cause decay or gum disease. We will also polish your teeth to leave them feeling fresh and clean and provide advice on ways to improve your at-home oral care routine. Regular cleanings and exams, typically scheduled every six months, are crucial in catching issues early and preventing cavities and gum disease from becoming more severe.

Cleaning and Preventative services Offered at Hartman Dentistry in Newport News, VA

Regular Cleanings and Dental Exams

Visiting Hartman Dentistry for regular cleanings and dental exams is one of the most effective ways to prevent future dental issues. While brushing and flossing are vital components of at-home oral care, they aren't always enough to keep your mouth completely free from harmful bacteria or plaque. Even small issues, like a tiny cavity or early-stage gum disease, can go unnoticed without the expertise of a professional exam. By attending regular check-ups, you ensure that any potential problems are caught early, and you can avoid more complicated treatments later on.

The American Dental Association recommends that patients visit their dentist twice a year for check-ups. During these visits, Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev will examine your mouth for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. They will also provide you with personalized advice on how to maintain or improve your oral health. The sooner dental issues are detected, the easier they are to treat, which is why regular visits to Hartman Dentistry are essential for preserving your smile and preventing long-term damage.

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is a serious health concern, but when detected early, the chances of successful treatment are greatly increased. As part of your routine dental exam at Hartman Dentistry, Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev will perform an oral cancer screening to look for signs of cancer in the mouth, throat, and neck. This involves checking for lumps, lesions, or abnormal tissue that could indicate oral cancer. Early detection allows for timely intervention, improving the likelihood of a positive outcome. Regular screenings are especially important for individuals who use tobacco, drink alcohol, or have a family history of oral cancer.

Digital Radiographs

Digital radiographs (X-rays) are an essential tool in modern dentistry, offering a safe and effective way to detect problems that may not be visible during a visual exam. At Hartman Dentistry, we use digital radiographs to capture high-resolution images of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. Unlike traditional X-rays, digital radiographs emit much less radiation, making them safer for patients of all ages. These images allow Dr. Hartman and Dr. Sibirtsev to identify cavities between teeth, bone loss, infections, and other issues beneath the surface that might not be immediately apparent. Early detection with digital radiographs helps us treat problems before they escalate, ensuring a healthier smile. Contact us to learn more.

Panoramic X-rays

Panoramic X-rays provide a broad, detailed view of your entire mouth, including the teeth, gums, jaw, and even your sinuses. This type of imaging allows Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev to see a more complete picture of your oral health, including issues that could be affecting your jawbone or unseen teeth, such as impacted wisdom teeth. Panoramic X-rays are particularly useful for planning treatments like orthodontics or restorative procedures, as they help assess the structure of your jaw and detect any underlying conditions that could affect your treatment. These X-rays are also valuable in identifying issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or abnormal growths.

Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras are a game-changing technology that enables you to see exactly what Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev sees inside your mouth. These small, high-definition cameras take close-up images of your teeth and gums, allowing for a more detailed and accurate assessment of your oral health. The images are displayed on a screen in real-time, so you can better understand any problems that might need attention, such as cavities, cracks, or gum recession. Intraoral cameras also serve as an educational tool, helping you make informed decisions about your treatment options and allowing you to visualize any dental issues firsthand.

Sealants

Dental sealants are a simple, effective way to prevent cavities from forming in the deep grooves of your back teeth (molars and premolars). These areas are more prone to decay because they can trap food and bacteria, making them difficult to clean with regular brushing. A dental sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surfaces of these teeth to provide an additional layer of protection. Sealants are most commonly recommended for children and teenagers, but adults can also benefit from them, especially if they are prone to cavities. Sealants can significantly reduce the risk of decay and help keep your teeth healthy over the long term.

Fluoride Treatment

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. At Hartman Dentistry, we offer fluoride treatments as part of your routine cleaning and exam. Fluoride treatments are especially beneficial for individuals at higher risk of cavities, such as children, those with sensitive teeth, or people who have had cavities in the past. The fluoride application is quick and painless, and it works to remineralize your enamel, providing added protection against future cavities. Regular fluoride treatments can help ensure your smile remains strong and healthy.

Patient Education and Home Care

At Hartman Dentistry, we believe that patient education is key to maintaining lifelong oral health. Dr. Hartman and Dr. Sibirtsev take the time to explain the importance of good at-home care, including the proper techniques for brushing and flossing. We'll also discuss the role of diet in oral health and provide tips on how to keep your teeth clean and healthy between visits. By empowering you with the knowledge you need, our dentists in Newport News, VA, will ensure that you can take an active role in your oral care and reduce the risk of dental problems. Our goal is to work with you to develop a personalized home care routine that complements your professional cleanings and exams.

Night Guard

If you suffer from teeth grinding (bruxism), you may be at risk for tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches. A night guard is a custom-made appliance that fits over your teeth and protects them from the effects of grinding or clenching while you sleep. Wearing a night guard can prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your teeth and help alleviate the discomfort associated with bruxism. If you believe you may be grinding your teeth at night, Dr. Hartman or Dr. Sibirtsev can evaluate your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include a custom night guard for better protection.

Conclusion

Preventive care is the cornerstone of maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile, and at Hartman Dentistry, we are here to guide you every step of the way. From thorough exams and cleanings to advanced diagnostic tools like digital radiographs and intraoral cameras, we provide top-tier care to detect and address potential issues early. By incorporating preventive treatments like fluoride, sealants, and night guards into your routine, you can ensure that your smile stays strong and healthy for years to come.

Ready to achieve your best smile? Visit Hartman Dentistry today at 11713 Jefferson Ave, Suite 100, in Newport News, VA, where Dr. Hartman and Dr. Sibirtsev offer exceptional dental care tailored to your needs. Call us at (757) 873-3407 to schedule your appointment and start your journey to a healthier, brighter smile!