We recommend our patients brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss daily. A good oral hygiene routine will help you prevent plaque buildup in the first place.

However, professional teeth cleanings are still necessary, even for those of us brushing and flossing every day. This is because plaque can build up in parts of your mouth that your toothbrush or floss simply can’t reach. Plaque eventually hardens into tartar, and tartar, no matter where it is on your teeth, cannot be removed completely except by a dental professional.

Our dentists will also use regular teeth cleanings as an opportunity to keep an eye on your oral health. We’ll check for signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease and look for evidence of other oral health issues, like TMJ disorder.

Regular oral examinations give our dentists the opportunity to look for early signs of oral health problems. That way, we can protect your oral health at minimal cost and disruption to your life. For example, seeing our dentists every six months can be the difference between getting a minor tooth filling and needing root canal therapy.

Additionally, early detection of gum disease can save your smile. Comprehensive dental exams allow our professional staff to assess the condition of your gums and their position along your teeth.

If we detect a cavity or other oral health issue during your dental checkup, our dentists will advise you on treatment options. That way, you can be informed and confident while making dental care decisions. Our dentists can also give you tips on how to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine to minimize your risk of future oral health problems.

The best part about scheduling a regular oral health exam is that we won’t just check your teeth and send you on your way. We’ll also perform a professional teeth cleaning and, if necessary, take dental X-rays. This way, you can get all of your preventive dental care in one appointment.

At Lake Michigan Dental, we have the latest dental technology in oral cancer detection: the Velscope. The Velscope utilizes a harmless, bright blue light to detect oral cancer before it develops into a visible or palpable lesion. Using the Velscope takes only about two minutes during your regular oral examination.

The state-of-the-art Velscope system helps our dentists visualize abnormalities in the mucosal tissues of your lips, mouth, and upper throat. In just two minutes, without any rinses, stains, or discomfort, a Velscope examination allows our dentists to more accurately assess your oral health.

Composite fillings provide durability and resistance to fractures in small- and medium-sized restorations. They typically consist of a mixture of glass and quartz filler and they can withstand moderate chewing pressure, making them a great option for the average patient.

If you have a tooth that requires a filling, our dentists will remove the decayed material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cavity with the composite filling. Composite fillings prevent further tooth decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter and harm the tooth.

The primary benefit to using a composite tooth-colored filling is that less tooth structure is removed during preparation. This means you’ll have a smaller filling, preserving the strength of your natural tooth. Additionally, composite fillings can be bonded or adhered in a cavity for a more conservative repair.

Although a stronger tooth is why dentists like composite fillings, our patients mostly prefer them because they blend into their natural teeth, unlike silver (amalgam) fillings. Composite fillings are custom-made to match the exact color of your teeth, creating a more natural appearance.

Keep in mind that while composite fillings are durable, they won’t last forever. While these white fillings may be less noticeable than other materials, they may chip or wear over time. Additionally, you’ll have to make sure not to stain your white fillings from too much coffee, tea, or tobacco products.