Keep Your Smile Healthy with Preventive Dental Care in Strongsville
At Aerni Dental, we believe the best way to maintain a healthy, confident smile is to be proactive about your oral health. That’s why Oral Wellness Exams are a key part of every patient’s care plan. Led by Dr. William M. Aerni, our team provides thorough, personalized exams to catch issues early, prevent future problems, and keep your teeth, gums, and whole mouth in optimal shape. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime patient, routine checkups are essential to protecting your oral and overall health.
What Is an Oral Wellness Exam?
An oral wellness exam—also called a dental checkup—is a comprehensive appointment that includes three main components:
- A professional dental cleaning
- Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, when needed)
- A full-mouth examination by Dr. Aerni
During this visit, we check for early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, bite misalignment, worn restorations, and other concerns. The purpose is to catch and treat small problems before they turn into costly or painful issues. Oral health is closely connected to whole-body health, so these visits may even reveal signs of conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
At Aerni Dental, we use the latest dental technology to ensure your exam is both comfortable and thorough. In fact, many patients tell us they look forward to their cleanings and checkups!
Who Should Have Routine Dental Exams?
The short answer? Everyone.
Dr. Aerni recommends that most patients visit us every six months for a wellness exam and cleaning. However, some individuals—such as those with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or systemic health issues like diabetes—may benefit from more frequent visits.
Even if you wear full dentures or have few natural teeth, regular checkups are important to assess the fit of dental appliances and screen for oral cancer or tissue changes. Patients of all ages—from children to seniors—are encouraged to maintain routine exams as part of a lifelong commitment to health.
Signs You May Be Due for an Oral Wellness Exam
Even if your next checkup isn’t scheduled yet, certain symptoms mean it’s time to see Dr. Aerni sooner:
- Bleeding or puffy gums
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
- Persistent bad breath
- Loose or damaged fillings, crowns, or dentures
- Jaw discomfort or popping sounds when chewing
- Changes in how your teeth fit together
- Oral sores that won’t heal
- Dry mouth or unusual taste
- Pain when chewing or brushing
If any of these issues sound familiar, don’t wait. Prompt care can prevent the need for more extensive treatment later.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your oral wellness exam at Aerni Dental is designed to be efficient, comfortable, and comprehensive:
1. Medical History Review
We start by discussing any health changes since your last visit—new medications, conditions, or symptoms that may affect your oral health.
2. Digital X-rays (if needed)
Depending on your history and last set of images, we may take diagnostic X-rays to check for cavities, infections, or bone loss that can’t be seen visually.
3. Gentle Cleaning
One of our skilled hygienists will remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and assess your gum health. If you’re due for fluoride treatment or sealants, we’ll discuss those too.
4. Full Dental Examination
Dr. Aerni will perform a detailed exam of your teeth, gums, bite alignment, TMJ (jaw joint), and soft tissues. He’ll also conduct an oral cancer screening, which is a standard part of every wellness exam at our practice.
5. Personalized Advice & Planning
We’ll discuss the results with you and go over any concerns or questions you may have. If further treatment is needed—like a filling, crown, or deeper gum therapy—we’ll schedule your next steps.
Why Choose Dr. Aerni for Preventive Care?
Dr. William M. Aerni has been serving the Strongsville community with high-quality, patient-centered care for decades. Known for his expertise in general, implant, and orthodontic dentistry, Dr. Aerni emphasizes preventive care as the foundation of long-term dental wellness.
Our office is equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic technology, including digital X-rays and intraoral cameras, to make your exam more accurate and more comfortable. You’ll never feel rushed—we take time to explain findings, answer questions, and tailor your care to your needs.
Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, you’ll experience the same friendly, professional approach that has made Aerni Dental a trusted name in oral healthcare across Northeast Ohio.
How Long Does It Take?
A standard oral wellness exam and cleaning usually takes about an hour. If you’re a new patient or need additional imaging, it may take slightly longer. Still, it’s a small investment of time with major benefits for your health and peace of mind.
Schedule Your Oral Wellness Exam in Strongsville Today
Your oral health deserves consistent care—and we’re here to make it easy. If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, or if you’re experiencing any symptoms or discomfort, now is the time to schedule an appointment.
Call Aerni Dental today at (440) 773-4553 or request an appointment online to reserve your visit. We look forward to helping you keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come.