We recommend that most patients visit us every six months for their biannual check up and cleaning. While Dr. Weldon can treat cavities and gum disease, it’s always best to prevent these oral health issues or catch them while they are small. A preventative check up can help us identify any concerns as early as possible so that they can be treated more easily and cost effectively. Has it been a little (or a lot) longer than six months since your last professional cleaning? Don’t worry! This is a shame-free zone and we all know that life can get in the way of the self-care we deserve sometimes. Just give our office a call and we will get you and your family scheduled for your check up and cleaning and get you right back on track.
At your biannual checkups, our team will look for any signs of damage, decay, or disease throughout your mouth, including an oral cancer screening. Digital X-rays will be taken at least once a year so that we can check for any areas of concern in the parts of the mouth that are hidden from the naked eye. Intraoral photographs will be made as needed and possible treatment options will be suggested, depending on symptoms and findings. Then one of our experienced hygienists Candy or Keri (maybe link to their photo on the team page?) will clean your teeth, removing the bacteria that has accumulated in the spots you may have missed with your toothbrush, leaving your mouth with that fresh, smooth “just been to the dentist” feeling we all love.
Fluoride is a compound that contains fluorine, a naturally occurring element. Fluoride inhibits the loss of minerals from tooth enamel and encourages remineralization (strengthening areas that are weakened and beginning to develop cavities). Fluoride also affects bacteria that can cause cavities, discouraging acid attacks that can break down the tooth. Topical fluoride is a preventative agent that is applied to your tooth enamel after your cleaning. Our fluoride varnish is quickly and easily brushed or “painted” on the enamel, giving your teeth an extra layer of cavity protection between check ups. Plus, with the latest formulations, there is no waiting to eat or drink after your appointment (yay!)
It can be hard to keep the molars clean due to their location near the back of the mouth and the various grooves on their chewing surfaces (this is especially the case for children who are still mastering the use of their toothbrushes). For anyone who needs extra help keeping certain areas of the mouth clean, we can apply a thin layer of plastic, called a sealant, to these at-risk teeth. By closing off the pits and fissures, we can prevent bacteria and food particles from getting caught in the tooth, making it easier to keep the area as clean as possible.
Gum disease and tooth decay are the main oral health issues that we keep an eye out for during your dental examinations, but we also have the opportunity to identify symptoms for other conditions as well. Your oral health is part of your overall health! We will check for any lumps, discolored patches, and other signs that can point to oral cancer. About 53,000 people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year, and those who are diagnosed early tend to have simpler treatment needs and live longer, which is why we go the extra mile to check for warning signs at every checkup.
Not all toothbrushes, toothpastes, and mouthwashes are alike. We would be happy to talk to you about the kinds of dental products we recommend for use at home. Some patients may benefit from prescription strength toothpastes or specialized electric toothbrushes, but we also can guide you regarding which oral care products you can pick up the next time you are at your local grocery or drug store.
Weldon Dental of Rome can be found along Martha Berry Blvd NE, near the intersection of N 5th Ave and W 11th Street. We’re only minutes away from the Publix Super Market at Charles High Square, Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center, and Heritage Park. If you see Divine Salon & Spa or The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, you’re in the right place! We can’t wait to welcome you in soon and help you get started on a brighter, healthier smile.
