Periodontal Treatment
Who Do We Treat?
At Horizons Dental, we believe in treating the whole family. Whether you’re looking for an appointment for yourself, your children or teens, your partner, or a parent, we can help! No more juggling multiple appointments at multiple dentist’s offices—just schedule the whole family at Horizons Dental.
What Happens at a Dental Cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning as prescribed for your needs is extremely important to your overall oral health. No matter how well you brush at home, there are some places in your mouth that even the best home toothbrush will have trouble with. The best way to prevent serious plaque buildup is by letting a professional hygienist help you. We do know that going to the dentist can make some people nervous, so we want you to be prepared for your appointment. Here’s what will happen at a typical general appointment at Horizons Dental.X-Rays
You generally won’t get x-rays every time you visit the dentist. However, if it’s time for an updated set of images, we will snap a few x-rays before we get started. Since x-rays help us see your jawbone as well as the roots of your teeth, they can help us make sure your teeth are healthy and that there’s nothing to worry about.Cleaning
After x-rays, we usually start with the cleaning itself. A dental hygienist will remove any plaque or tartar, which are two different kinds of bacteria build-up, from your teeth. The hygienist will then brush your teeth and floss them. We’ll have your pearly whites feeling sparkly and refreshed.Examination
Once your teeth have been x-rayed, cleaned, and flossed, the dentist will come by for a closer look. Dr. Leyder will look over your x-rays and examine your mouth visually to double-check for any problems. If they see anything concerning, the dentist will then talk to you about potential treatment.Fluoride
Like x-rays, whether or not you receive fluoride treatment depends on how recently you’ve had a fluoride treatment. You can opt in or out, it’s up to you! Fluoride helps protect your teeth by making your enamel more resistant to bacteria, acid, and sugar. If you need treatment, we will coat your teeth with fluoride at the end of your appointment right before you leave.
What If I Have a Dental Problem?
During your general checkup, if the hygienist or dentist notices a problem, they will talk you through treatment options. Sometimes, the problem means you’ll need to change your oral hygiene habits. Early-stage gum disease, for example, will typically resolve on its own after a professional cleaning and a renewed commitment to daily brushing and flossing. You may discover you have one of these dental problems that require a follow-up appointment:- Cavities | Treated with tooth-colored fillings.
- Tooth Infection | Treated with a root canal or tooth extraction.
- Crooked or Misaligned Teeth | Treated with SureSmile® orthodontics.
- Missing Teeth | Treated with bridges, dentures, or dental implants.
- Broken or Damaged Teeth | Treated with veneers or dental crowns.
- Tooth Stains | Treated with teeth whitening serum or veneers.
