To maintain optimal oral health, it is recommended that you have a dental exam every six months. Most patients only need two dental exams per year. Dental exams allow your dentist to find possible signs of gum disease, tooth decay, as well as other potentially life-threatening conditions such as oral cancer or diabetes. It is extremely important to have a dental exam every six months in order to identify and treat any potential problems early, therefore preventing major dental emergencies.

Dental cleanings shouldn’t be painful. There can, however, be complicating factors. If the patient has gum Inflammation, tooth decay or other oral disease symptoms, this can lead to increased sensitivity. Increased sensitivity can cause pain when irritated during the cleaning process. It is important to be honest with your dentist of any oral symptoms, to ensure the cleaning process is as painless as possible. The best way to avoid dental pain is through regular maintenance of your teeth, including at-home and professional cleanings.