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For most of us, dental cleanings are a regular part of life. Seeing the dentist twice a year to maintain oral health is a simple step, but it’s one that a lot of people overlook. Whether you’re new to the world of dentistry, if it’s been a while since your last appointment, or if you’re just curious to see what to expect, we’ve got you covered.

Although the exact steps in the process may vary slightly from one dentist or hygienist to the next, it’s basically the same no matter where you go.

Step One: The Exam

Before doing anything, your dentist or hygienist is going to want to poke around and see what state your oral health is in. In addition to general health, they will look for specific issues, such as cavities, gingivitis, or other oral health concerns. They may also request X-rays to get a thorough view of the situation.

Step Two: Plaque and Tartar Removal

Once the exam is complete, it’s cleaning time. That starts with plaque and tartar removal, which is usually most people’s leastfavorite part of teeth cleaning. Using a variety of metal tools and a small mirror, the dentist or dental hygienist will scrape all the tartar and plaque from your teeth. Then, your mouth will be rinsed before moving to the next stage.

Step Three: Deep Cleaning

The next step is to do a deep cleaning with an electric toothbrush. This is a professional-grade version of the kinds you can buy to use at home, and it’s usually combined with a gritty toothpaste to help deep clean and restore some of the shine. This can remove additional plaque and debris that is missed in the initial process.

Step Four: Flossing

Once brushing is complete, your hygienist or dentist will floss your teeth vigorously and thoroughly. This helps remove any remaining debris and ensures that your gums are clean and healthy. For those who floss regularly, this step usually is fairly painless. Those who have gum health concerns or who don’t floss may deal with some bleeding or slight discomfort during this process.

Step Five: Fluoride Treatment

Most cleanings conclude with a fluoride treatment. The dentist will fill a tray with fluoride gel and then put it in your mouth and tell you to bite down. This will stay in your mouth for a few minutes before being removed. Then your mouth will be rinsed a final time.

Step Six: Rinse and Repeat

Technically, the last step is just a gentle reminder. You should be getting dental cleanings every six months, or at the very least, once a year, to keep your oral health in its best condition. And once you feel how clean your mouth is after a visit to the dentist, the chances are good that you’ll be ready to go back.

Prevention is a lot easier and more affordable when it comes to your teeth, which is why regular cleanings are essential. Schedule your check-up and cleaning today if you haven’t had one in the last six months!

How much do you know about your tongue? Sure, it’s important for speaking and for removing food stuck in between your teeth. However, this fascinating organ is one of the most important parts of your mouth. Here are some little-known facts about your tongue.

1. Your Tongue Has 8 Muscles

Your tongue is one of the most flexible parts of your body, thanks to the eight muscles it contains. However, the idea that it’s the strongest muscle in the body is just a myth. That honor belongs to the quads and glutes.

2. No Saliva, No Taste

Did you know that without saliva, the taste buds on your tongue couldn’t do their job? That’s right. Saliva is necessary to help flavors bind to the receptor molecules. Your tongue is also partially responsible for producing saliva, through the submandibular glands at its base.

3. Your Taste Buds Die and Are Replaced

The tongue can have as few as 2,000 or as many as 10,000 taste buds. However, they’re not permanent. Some of them die off every week and are replaced with new ones. They’re also located all over the tongue, and the idea that different areas of the tongue correspond to salty, sweet, sour, and bitter tastes is just a myth. Every part of the tongue can taste all tastes.

4. The Color of Your Tongue Says a Lot About Your Health

A normal, healthy tongue is pink. However, if your tongue is red, it’s a sign that you may be suffering from allergies or an infection. White patches on the tongue often indicate a fungal overgrowth, while blistering is usually a sign of an allergic reaction (blood pressure medicines can also cause your tongue to blister).

5. Your Tongue Is a Haven for Bacteria

If you look closely at your tongue, you’ll see that it’s covered by tiny bumps called papillae. That’s completely normal, but it also makes your tongue a perfect home for bacteria. The best way to deal with them is to brush your tongue whenever you brush your teeth. Note that a tongue that’s too smooth (missing a lot of papillae) is an indication that you’re deficient in folic acid.

6. You Can Store Fat in Your Tongue

Recent studies have shown that the tongue stores fat much like other parts of the body. This can lead to a larger-than-normal tongue and increase your risk of sleep apnea due to obstruction by the tongue.

The Amazing, Essential Tongue

Your tongue is one of the most important parts of your mouth, and yet it’s often overlooked when it comes to oral care. Vital for speaking, essential for tasting, and irreplaceable, the tongue deserves a little TLC.

You should brush your tongue twice a day, just like your teeth. You should also keep an eye on its color and texture for clues to other health conditions. Regular visits to your doctor will help ensure that you’re able to keep your tongue, teeth, and gums in good health.

Naturally, you want to have healthy-looking, clean teeth. You want your smile to be as white and charming as possible. Having stained teeth covered in plaque is not the look you want. Ensuring that you get your teeth professionally cleaned regularly is a huge help when you want to establish a healthy lifestyle. Of course, many people aren’t aware of just how often they should get their teeth cleaned.

Typically, a dental cleaning will be part of an annual checkup that you have with your dentist. However, having an annual cleaning is not enough for most people. Consider all of the various types of foods that you eat that could stain your teeth. Consider the way your teeth feel and the amount of plaque that starts to build up over time, even when you are taking good care of them.

Instead of annually, it’s recommended that you have a professional cleaning every six months. With some gum conditions, it can be as often as two to three months. This will help to ensure cleaner and healthier teeth and gums.  Your dentist can help you determine the proper interval for your situation.  Plus, if there are any issues with your dental health, your dentist will find them during these visits. This means you could catch problems earlier than if you only had one cleaning a year.

Why Do I Need Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings will help to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy and in good shape. They are a good part of oral hygiene. As mentioned, they allow the dentist to get a better look at what’s happening with your teeth. Any issues that you might have can be addressed early, so you can keep your mouth as healthy as possible.

If you do not keep your teeth clean and if you don’t visit the dentist regularly, there is a good chance that you will be dealing with oral health problems. Cavities, gingivitis, tooth loss and breakage, hardened plaque, tartar, and inflamed gums are just a couple of the potential problems that you will face. It’s best to find a good dentist that can take care of your cleanings a several times a year.

Taking Care of Your Teeth Between Dental Cleanings

However, this doesn’t mean that you aren’t still responsible for keeping your teeth clean the rest of the time. You need to make sure that you are providing yourself with good oral care in between those visits. This means that you need to brush your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes each time. Ideally, you will brush after each meal and after any sugary snacks that you might have. This can help to keep your teeth in better shape.

When you are choosing a toothbrush, opting for a soft-bristled brush is a good idea. You will want to be sure that you are using high-quality fluoridated toothpaste, too. In addition to brushing, you should also floss your teeth to remove any particles that are in between your teeth and that could cause damage if they are left there. Flossing should be done at least once a day. Additionally, make sure that you have some good mouthwash that will help to keep the breath feeling and smelling fresh, and that will keep the bacteria away.

Get in Touch with a Great Dentist for Cleaning and Other Care

Your dental health is connected to your overall health. Take the time to find a good dentist that can help you with your teeth cleanings twice a year, and who can help you with other dental care that you might need. You can talk with your dentist about the best types of toothbrushes to use, as well as the best kinds of toothpaste to use, too. Take care of your teeth and they will take care of you. Dr. Foutz can help you keep your teeth and gum tissue in optimal health!

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

You know how important it is to brush your teeth and to floss your teeth, but do you really need to have mouthwash, too? Many people forego using mouthwash because they feel that they are getting their teeth and gums clean enough without it. However, this could be a mistake. You will find that there are some nice benefits to using mouthwash. Let’s look at a couple of the biggest benefits to see why you should consider adding mouthwash to your oral care routine.

Helps to Provide a Full Cleaning

For starters, when you use mouthwash, it will provide you with a fuller, better clean for your mouth. Even though you are brushing your teeth and flossing, there are still areas that can’t be reached. All of those little crevices between the teeth that can’t be reached with your floss or the bristles of your brush are breeding grounds for bacteria. They can cause damage to your teeth. Using mouthwash can help to reach those areas and will improve your oral health.

Kills Germs that Cause Teeth to Decay and Provide Other Benefits

Using mouthwash, particularly mouthwash with fluoride can help to prevent cavities. It can also strengthen enamel and re-mineralize your teeth, which can stop the process of decay. Mouthwash can also help to stop plaque from building up on your teeth, which will reduce the number of bacteria on the teeth that release acids. There are also options for mouthwashes that can help with whitening your teeth. You can find different types of mouthwash that can help with different oral health needs.

Helps to Reduce Bad Breath

Of course, one of the other benefits of using mouthwash is that it can help to combat bad breath. Although it won’t kill bad breath permanently, it can help to reduce it at least temporarily. It will kill bacteria that cause odors that might still exist even after brushing and flossing. It can also be nice to have around for those times after lunch when you have an upcoming meeting that’s face to face and you don’t have time to brush. It will keep the scent of garlic out of the meeting room.

How and When to Use Mouthwash

Something that you need to remember is that using mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. It’s an additional way to help your oral health. Typically, you will use the mouthwash twice a day when you brush and floss in the morning and evening. You could use it more often, but don’t overdo it and do not swallow it.

The alcohol and the fluoride that are in many of the mouthwashes should not be ingested in high amounts. This is especially true for children. The American Dental Association does not recommend that mouthwash is used for any children who are under six years old.

How to Choose Mouthwash

A look online or in the local grocery store or pharmacy will show you that there are many mouthwash options on the market today. What should you look for when choosing mouthwash? When you are choosing a mouthwash, one of the first things you should do is look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. Sometimes your dentist will recommend you use a prescription mouthwash for certain conditions.  Talk to them and see.

You will also want to look at the other added features and benefits the particular mouthwash can offer. For example, you will likely want to have mouthwash that includes fluoride, since it is good for your teeth. You might want to find an alcohol-free mouthwash, or maybe you are looking for something that includes hydrogen peroxide for whitening. Maybe you need an option for sensitive teeth. Determine what you need and then find a mouthwash that can meet those needs.

If you are uncertain about what you should choose, you can always talk with your dentist. They can provide information on mouthwash, toothbrushes, oral care, and more. Dr Foutz can give you specific recommendations for your situation.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Around 77% of adults say they will go to the dentist within the year to come, but less than half of those actually do. For many people going to the dentist can be a stressful experience, while many others don’t understand the importance and necessity of regular dental checkups.

Going to the dentist every six months for cleanings and routine exams plays a significant role in preventing dental and gum issues or identifying and treating them before they worsen into a serious issue. Research has also shown a connection between poor oral health or gum disease and other health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, or diabetes.

There are many reasons it is important to schedule a dentist appointment, whether for routine cleaning or to address a concern in your teeth or gums. Putting off going to the dentist can make many issues worse and the care need to treat them more expensive. Here are some important reasons to make a dentist appointment sooner rather than later:

Pain 

A toothache is one of the most obvious reasons to go to the dentist, but people often ignore it until it becomes unbearable.  Making a dentist appointment quickly can help stop a problem before it gets worse and save you from unnecessary pain.

Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth could simply be from growing older, but it could also be a sign of a more serious issue such as bruxism or teeth grinding. Sensitivity can be frustrating, but your dentist can make recommendations to help combat it.

Swelling

Swelling or lumps in your mouth, jaw, or even on your face or neck can be a sign of dental problem or a more serious underlying problem such as oral cancer.

Swollen Or Bleeding Gums

If you’ve noticed that your gums bleed after brushing, they feel tender or red, or appear puffy, it is important to see your dentist. Gum disease that is left untreated can become very serious, painful, and affect your teeth in addition to your gums.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth or insufficient saliva can cause tooth decay or even affect the health of your gums.

Pain While Eating

It shouldn’t hurt to chew or swallow. This could be a sign of tooth decay, a cracked tooth, tissue damage or more, not to mention keep you from eating as well as you should be.

Jaw Pain

If your jaw pops regularly or if it hurts when you open or close your mouth, when you chew, or when you wake up in the morning, you could have a cracked tooth, an abscess, crowded teeth, or gum disease. Jaw pain can also be a sign that you’re grinding your teeth or have a TMD, disorders that cause chronic pain or dysfunction of the jaw.

You Don’t Like To Smile

Regardless of the reason for hiding your smile, a dentist can help you to regain your confidence. A dentist can provide treatment and solutions for everything from missing to discolored teeth.

You Are Pregnant

The extra hormones from pregnancy can often cause existing dental problems to worsen or increase the risk for new problems. A dental checkup while pregnant is safe and the best way to prevent oral issues.

You Smoke Or Chew Tobacco

Tobacco, regardless of how it is used can lead to a range of dental problems such as decay, bad breath or even oral cancer making it even more important to remain consistent with dental cleanings and checkups.

You’re Due For A Checkup

Routine cleanings and dental exams are beneficial for preventing problems, but it can also make it easier to treat them if they are caught early on. Checkups are also a good time to check the condition of past dental work and ensure that any fillings, crowns, or even implants are in good condition. 

Call us at Foutz Family Dentistry today at (702) 792-5929 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Teeth can crack for a number of reasons; perhaps you have fallen or gotten hit in the face, or maybe you simply chewed on something hard. A cracked tooth is unfortunate, but you do not have to worry because there are several effective solutions for a cracked tooth.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we have seen countless patients with cracked, chipped or broken teeth and offer a number of procedures to repair your damaged teeth. The right solution will be dependent on how severe the damage to the tooth, but with over 30 years of experience Dr. Foutz has the knowledge and experience needed to deliver the finest dental care.

Reasons For A Cracked Tooth

Teeth can crack for many reasons including:

• A bad fall
• Blow to the face
• Biting something hard
• Tooth decay
• Cavities

Procedures To Repair A Cracked Tooth

1) Porcelain Crown

A porcelain crown is placed over a tooth, surrounding the enamel. In essence, a crown functions as a cap on the tooth, protecting it from continued damage, easing pain while chewing, and improving its appearance. Crowns are made in tooth-colored porcelain that look natural but are strong and durable. Crowns are made individually for each person ensuring that you receive a crown made specifically for your teeth that will be comfortable and permanent.

2) Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth that are attached to crowns on adjacent teeth. A bridge may be a good option if you have more than one cracked tooth as it can help if you have more than one cracked tooth. A bridge is also a good option if your tooth is so severely cracked that it must be removed; it helps to complete empty spaces giving a natural complete looking smile.

3) Dental Implants

A dental implant is one of the most sought after solutions for replacing missing teeth or improving the appearance of severely cracked or damaged teeth. Dental implants can replace a single tooth in between two health teeth, allowing you to only address the tooth in question. With a dental implant, the severely cracked tooth would first be removed. After the gum has healed, a porous metal anchor is first placed into the jawbone and given time for osseointegration. Afterwards a mounting post and a specially designed crown are attached to the post and positioned at the gum line. Dental implants function like natural teeth and can be used as anchors for crowns, bridges or to secure loose dentures.

4) Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is more commonly used for minor cracks or chips in teeth. Using a tooth-colored composite resin, a cracked tooth is filled or repaired helping to improve its aesthetic appearance. Bonding can provide long-lasting results but is better used for smaller corrections.

5) Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells that are made to look like a natural tooth. A veneer is created to match both the color and shape of your teeth, but is bonded to the tooth in order to correct minor flaws. With a veneer, you can retain your tooth and its natural strength while improving the appearance of a cracked tooth.

To learn more about effective solutions for severely cracked teeth in Henderson, Nevada, call Foutz Family Dentistry today at (702) 792-5929.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Although the natural color of teeth is not the bright white we often envy, there are still steps we can take to help prevent further tooth whitening loss. As people age, teeth can darken as enamel cracks and erodes absorbing color from the foods and drinks we consume. Plaque and tartar buildup can also create a prime surface for tooth stains. Maintaining healthy white teeth can be done by way of several simple everyday tips as well as with professional teeth whitening.

Foutz Family Dentistry understands the impact a bright and beautiful smile can make on the self-esteem and confidence of a person. We offer several teeth whitening procedures to help you get the stunning smile you desire and also offer you several at home tips to help you maintain the whiteness of your teeth.

Preventing Tooth Stains

 Tooth stains can be prevented through several home remedies in addition to professional dental procedures.

-Maintain Regular Dental Cleanings:

Professional dental cleanings and routine checkups are the best way for people of all ages to maintain both the health and appearance of their teeth. Dental cleanings are the most effective way to remove the plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing often miss. Through dental cleanings you can be sure that your teeth are truly clean helping to prevent a surface enamel that stains can easily latch on to.

– Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Practices

 Following consistent oral hygiene practices such as regular brushing and flossing can make a significant difference in preventing tooth whitening loss. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash consistently will work to kill the bacteria that leads to plaque and facilitates staining.

-Avoid Consumption Of Tooth Staining Beverages

Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, acidic juices, and dark sodas are known culprits for stained teeth. If you still choose to consume these drinks, you may consider using a straw to help limit the exposure to your teeth.

-Munch On Whitening Foods

Certain crunchy foods such as apples, celery and carrots can act as natural scrubbers to help remove stains. The effect may only be slight, but the acidic nature along with their rough flesh can aid in cleaning and even brightening teeth

-Brush After Consuming Tooth Staining Drinks Or Foods

By brushing your teeth or at a minimum rinsing your mouth out after you have consumed stain-causing drinks or foods, you can make a significant impact on preventing whitening loss.

-Treat Heartburn

The acid that result from heartburn, or acid reflux, can also cause damage to the color and enamel of your teeth. By treating heartburn, you not only help yourself feel better, but you also help to improve the condition of your teeth.

-Consider Professional Tooth Whitening

Tooth whitening procedures performed by a trusted dentist are designed to whiten teeth quickly, safely and comfortably. Through professional tooth whitening you can often achieve teeth that are up to five shades whiter.

Henderson Teeth Whitening

At Foutz Family Dentistry we feature Opalescence Boost PF Tooth Whitening procedures. Under the supervision of Dr. Barton H. Foutz, the Opalescence Boost PF Whitening process will deliver proven results without causing damage to teeth or gums.

Foutz Family Dentistry offers whitening procedures that can be performed in-office or at-home, or even a combination of both options. For more information on one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures offered, contact us today at (702) 792-5929.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

An oral cancer screening is an exam typically performed by a dentist to check the oral cavity for precancerous conditions or signs of cancer. During an oral cancer screening, an experienced dentist such as Dr. Barton H. Foutz of Foutz Family Dentistry is able identify early signs of oral cancer allowing patients to get treatment before reaching a more advanced stage.

At Foutz Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to the complete oral health of our patients, which is why we choose to perform a precautionary oral cancer screening during every dental exam. By doing so, our hope is to help patients reduce their personal risk for oral cancer or extend a patient’s possibility for successful treatment from an early diagnosis.

Why Is An Oral Cancer Screening Performed?

 Oral cancer screenings are a precautionary measure taken during a dental exam to check for potential signs of oral cancer. It is not a medical exam or a diagnostic exam and is not performed because cancer is suspected. It is estimated that approximately 84% of oral cancer cases can detected early by a dentist.

What Takes Place During An Oral Cancer Screening?

During an oral cancer screening a dentist will visually and physically examine the mouth, lips, face, neck, and inside of the nose for abnormalities such as:

• Swelling
• Bumps, Lumps, Or Hard Spots
• Ulcers Or Sores
• Discoloration
• Red Or White Patches
• Bleeding
• Numbness Or Pain While Biting Down

The dentist will also use a gloved hand to feel the tissues in the mouth while visually checking for abnormalities and signs of cancer. A dentist will also feel a patient’s head, cheeks, and areas around the jaw to check for unusual nodules, swelling, or lumps. Specialized examining tools or dyes may also be used to help them better identify potential problems. Patients with dentures or other dental appliances will be asked to remove them prior to the examination in order to perform a more thorough examination.

Am I At Risk For Oral Cancer?

 Unfortunately, oral cancer is often detected in patients with no risk factors, however the majority of those diagnosed with oral cancer will present at least one of the following risk factors:

• Smoking Or Tobacco Use (Including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff)
• Heavy Alcohol Consumption
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Unhealthy Diet
• History Excessive Sun Exposure
• Age (Those over the age of 40 are at a higher risk)
• Gender (Men are at a higher risk than women)
• Previous Oral Cancer Diagnosis

Those with higher risk for oral cancer should especially seek out an oral cancer screening during regular dental cleanings, but as cancer can hit even those without risk factors it is increasingly important to include oral cancer screenings in every dental exam.

Henderson General Dentistry

Foutz Family Dentistry in Henderson, Nevada offers superior general, family and cosmetic dentistry. Through years of expertise and experience combined with modern dental procedures and technology, Dr. Barton H. Foutz and his staff provide the finest dental care. During a dental cleaning or dental exam, we will perform a thorough oral cancer screening to help better ensure the oral health of our patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment call us today at (702) 792-5929.

 Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

A significant amount of our population takes personal health for granted with oral hygiene often ending up even lower on the list of priorities. Although, you surely brush your teeth twice a day, rinse with mouthwash and occasionally floss, it does not take away from the importance of routine professional dental cleanings. Many think that the dentist’s recommended 6-month cleaning appointments are not necessary, however professional dental cleanings do, in fact, make a big difference in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.

By not getting professional dental care checks at least twice a year, you’re putting yourself at risk of losing out on your quality of life, money, and time. By just spending a couple of hours a year, you’re saving a lot! Here’s why professional dental cleanings make a big difference.

Bad Breath Prevention

Halitosis, most commonly known as bad breath, is one of the conditions most effectively treated through routine dental cleanings. Apart from the obvious social inconveniences, the worst thing about bad breath is that you may not even know you have it. Bad breath is an indication of an underlying oral disease or an accumulation of plaque. These issues cannot be resolved by simply brushing your teeth. Regular dental cleanings by experienced dentists and dental hygienists are the most effective way to treat the root cause of your bad breath.

Healthy Gums, Healthy You

Oral hygiene is directly related to your health. A surprisingly large number of people suffer from gum disease. Strong links have been found to exist between gum disease and cardiac disease conditions, making regular dental check ups and cleanings by a professional a priority can prevent more serious conditions.

Detect Problems

In addition to detecting gum disease, periodic dental cleanings are necessary to catch cavities that need to be filled before they can lead to a bigger procedure such as a root canal. Dental cleaning appointments also provide an easy way to perform follow-up work that may need to be done on a cavity that has been filled previously. Through routine cleanings, your dentist is able to more effectively monitor potential issues. In a number of cases, oral cancer has even been detected at an early stage during routine cleaning sessions.

Henderson Family Dentistry

At Foutz Family Dentistry, Dr. Barton Foutz and his team of experienced and professional dental hygienists perform thorough dental cleanings that will make a big difference in the health of your teeth and gums. Call us today at (702) 792-5929  to make an appointment.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums requires a commitment to regular dental checkups. Brushing and flossing on a daily basis do not cancel out the importance of seeing your dentist every six months. During a dental checkup, your dentist and dental hygienist are able to check the overall condition of your teeth and gums, catching potential problems before they become worse.

Poor dental health has been linked with other serious conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and respiratory infections among others. Bacteria found in your mouth can be breathed in or can enter your bloodstream affecting the overall health of your body. At Foutz Family Dentistry, we are committed to monitoring your oral health to ensure that your teeth and gums remain in the best condition helping to avoid other serious physical conditions.

Dental cleanings and examinations are typically recommended every 6 months, although for some patients a shorter period of time may be recommended. During a routine dental visit, Dr. Foutz and his team of oral hygienists will perform a visual inspection, periodontal probe and take digital x-rays along with a thorough dental cleaning.

Reasons For A Routine Dental Checkup 

• Disease Prevention – Staying consistent with dental visits allows Dr. Foutz to catch diseases or dental problems in the early stages, saving you from costly and more complicated procedures. During a dental examination, your teeth are thoroughly inspected for signs of periodontal, or gum, disease, vitamin deficiencies, oral cancer, cavities, plaque and tartar. Dr. Foutz and his knowledgeable team are highly trained to recognize signs of dental diseases making it possible to catch any

• Encourage Healthy Habits – During a dental cleaning and examination, dentists and hygienists alike are able to identify habits that might be negatively affecting your oral health. Damage to your teeth and gums can be cause by smoking, nail biting, teeth grinding, diet and even brushing habits. A dental checkup also is an ideal time to introduce healthy habits that will better benefit your teeth and gums. Your hygienist will likely recommend methods or habits that will help improve the condition of your teeth. Going to your dentist appointment every six months will help keep you accountable for staying consistent with proper brushing, flossing and avoidance of bad habits.

• Dental Cleaning–No one has perfect dental home care, which makes regular dental cleanings essential for maintaining dental health. Our hygienists at Foutz Family Dentistry will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup that was not removed with regular brushing or flossing. Removal of plaque and tartar during a cleaning is one of the most effective way to prevent gum disease and improve bad breath.

• Head And Neck Examination – During a routine dental visit, Dr. Foutz also performs an examination of your head and neck checking lymph nodes and jawlines for any abnormalities. Dr. Foutz is able to identify swelling, lumps and other abnormalities that could be signs of a serious health issues allowing you to seek treatment before it can get worse.

Henderson Dental Examinations and Cleanings 

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS strongly encourages patients to remain consistent with dental appointments every six months. Through routine dentist appointments, you will better be able to maintain the condition of your teeth and oral health. Contact our office today to schedule your routine dental examination.

Dr. Barton H. Foutz, DDS
2510 Wigwam Parkway Suite 100 Henderson, NV 89074
(702) 792-5929