Dental Exams & Cleanings in Gambrills, MD

The importance of routine dental exams and professional cleanings

In partnership with our patients, Bingham-Lester Dentistry strives to make good oral hygiene a way of life for you and all members of your family. Good home care is essential, but it is not a substitute for the regular exam and dental cleaning at our Crofton area office in Gambrills, Maryland.

Dentist performing dental exam on male patient in Gambrills, MD
Smiling Black woman preparing for dental check-up in Gambrills, MD

Why do I need both home care and professional care?

Consistent and thorough brushing and flossing are essential to prevent the buildup of destructive plaque. This bacterial film is responsible for the development of gum disease and tooth decay, the leading causes of tooth loss. However, standard toothbrushes and floss have their limitations. No one can prevent all plaque from forming. When plaque hardens, it becomes tartar – a stubborn substance that can only be removed by properly trained hygienists and their professional tools. Our hygienists can also advise on proper brushing and flossing techniques and products. The exam part of the visit is essential, too, because Dr. Vickii R. Bingham-Lester detects problems early on before they progress and cause serious damage (like tooth loss).

Won’t I know if there is a problem with my mouth?

Not always. Oral conditions like tooth decay and gum disease are often “silent” or symptom-free early on. So, you may mistakenly think your mouth is healthy. You can still have an underlying problem that requires prompt treatment even when your teeth and gums look and feel “fine.” Dr. Bingham-Lester has the knowledge and technologies to detect even the most early-stage and subtle problems. Identifying the problem is the first step. She then recommends the best approaches for you to stop the problem from getting worse and causing further damage. In turn, with such proactive care, you can avoid pain, trauma, and costly and aggressive treatment associated with later-stage oral disease and damage. 

Relaxed middle-aged woman enjoying comfort after dental care in Gambrills, MD

Is there a right way and a wrong way to brush and floss?

How you brush and floss is important. As true partners in your oral health journey, Dr. Bingham-Lester and our hygienists offer guidance on brushing and flossing more effectively. Many patients (including adults) are not cleaning their teeth and gums properly. We can identify potential challenges and shortfalls in care, and advise on good cleaning techniques and products that can also help. In general, it is important to clean:

  • The tongue and all areas of the mouth that can harbor bacteria, not just the teeth
  • Long enough – for at least two minutes twice daily
  • Between teeth with floss at least one time each day – We can also recommend interdental brushes and other floss products to support good oral hygiene.

Be diligent. Clean all tooth surfaces. Take your time. Do not rush it.

Am I overdue for a dental visit?

You may be! Has it been longer than six months since you last saw a dentist? If so, you should contact us right away to schedule an appointment. Even if you think your mouth is healthy, all patients should have their mouths examined and teeth cleaned professionally at least twice a year. Once Dr. Bingham-Lester meets with you initially, she can establish a routine tailored to your needs. You may need to see us more frequently at first to resolve problems, or on an ongoing basis due to risk factors that you may have for oral disease; for instance, diabetics may require more frequent “check-ups” due to the increased risk of infections and other oral problems. Bingham-Lester Dentistry also welcomes patients of all ages, including infants as soon as the first tooth erupts (or even earlier than that milestone).

For your convenience, we may schedule family members’ appointments simultaneously. Our team looks forward to hearing from you – call us at (410) 885-6522 today.