Preventive Dentistry in Maple Ridge

Prevention is the easiest and most affordable way to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. Simple steps like brushing and flossing every day and visiting our Maple Ridge dental clinic twice a year for exams and cleanings will reward you with a healthier, more confident smile. 

Our dentists understand that each patient has unique needs. Wherever you are on your dental health journey, we will meet you with kindness and respect, and together we’ll take the next step to help you achieve excellent oral health. 

Dental Exams & Cleanings Every Six Months

Even if you brush and floss every day and your teeth feel fine, exams and teeth cleanings every six months are crucial. You can have gum disease or tooth decay without any symptoms, but your dentist or hygienist can find and treat the problem before it becomes painful or damages your oral health.

If you are new to our dental clinic in Maple Ridge, we will first review your medical and dental history and the medications you take. This information ensures that we provide the safest, most appropriate treatment. 

During your six-month checkups, our dentists take the following steps: 

• Ask if you have experienced changes since your last visit, such as bleeding gums, tooth pain, or tooth sensitivity
• Look for signs of gum disease and measure the spaces between your teeth and gums 
• Check your jaw and dental bite for signs of TMJ problems or teeth grinding (bruxism) 
• Perform an oral cancer screening 
• Take x-rays if needed to diagnose issues or update your patient record.

We want you to feel confident and informed about your oral health, so we use intraoral cameras as part of your routine exams. This technology allows you to see what our dentists see, and if they detect a cavity or broken filling, you can view the image in real-time. 

Teeth Cleanings in Maple Ridge, BC

The Canadian Dental Association recommends teeth cleanings with a skilled dental hygienist every six months. The purpose of professional dental cleaning is to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from your teeth to help prevent gum disease and cavities. 

Gum disease is a widespread problem, and it is estimated that 70 percent of the Canadian population will have gum disease at some point in their lifetimes.

Gingivitis or Early Gum Disease

In its early stages, gum disease is called gingivitis, where your gums look red and puffy. You may also notice bleeding when you brush or floss, an unpleasant odour or taste, and bad breath. 

Without gingivitis treatment, pockets or spaces open up around the teeth and allow bacteria to develop and cause an infection. If gum disease progresses, you may even be at risk of losing one or more teeth.

Gum Disease and Your Overall Health and Wellness

Researchers are just beginning to understand the relationship between oral diseases and our general health. We now know a connection exists between oral health and heart disease, stroke, diabetes and respiratory illness in older adults. A link has also been established with premature delivery and low birthweight babies.

The most important factor in preventing gum disease from damaging your oral health is keeping your teeth clean. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing once keeps your teeth free of plaque, and pairing your efforts with routine dental cleanings is the easiest way to keep your smile healthy.

Is it Time to Schedule Your Next Dental Exam? 

If you’re due for your next six-month dental exam, we invite you to call our Maple Ridge, BC dental office. We look forward to seeing your smile!