Teeth Cleanings

What are Dental Exams & Cleanings?

Keeping your teeth healthy and clean requires more than diligent brushing and flossing at home. In many cases, plaque will build upon different areas of the teeth, hardening into a chalky white substance known as tartar. The only safe way to remove tartar buildup is with a professional cleaning performed by a registered hygienist. Exams are necessary as well, since they give us a view of your dental and oral health to prevent issues from getting worse.

Why are Dental Exams & Cleanings necessary?

Even with the best brushing habits, you can still benefit from a professional cleaning. Exams are just as necessary, since they can alert us of minor problems so that treatment is both easier and more effective. Cleanings help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay when done regularly. It's never too late to start taking better care of your smile with routine preventative treatment.

How often should you come in for Dental Exams & Cleanings?

We recommend coming into our office once every six months to keep up with your dental health. If you have children, try to get them in for their first appointment as soon as possible. If it's been a long time since your last cleaning, it's never too late to start loving your smile. We offer care in a judgement-free and relaxed manner.

How often does my child need a dental cleaning?

We recommend a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Regular cleanings remove tartar buildup that brushing and flossing at home can't fully clear, and they help prevent cavities and gum disease.

What happens during a dental cleaning?

A licensed hygienist removes tartar and surface stains, then polishes and flosses your child's teeth and checks the gums for signs of inflammation. Afterward, one of our doctors performs an exam to check for decay or other concerns.

Is a dental cleaning the same as an exam?

They go hand in hand but aren't the same thing. The cleaning removes plaque and tartar, while the exam lets our doctors check for cavities, loose or damaged teeth, and overall oral health.

At what age should my child start getting cleanings?

We recommend starting regular cleanings by your child's first birthday, or within six months of their first tooth erupting, so we can monitor their oral health from the very beginning.

Will my child's cleaning appointment include X-rays?

Not always. We only recommend X-rays when needed, such as to check for decay between teeth or to monitor how permanent teeth are developing.

How can I help my child prepare for a cleaning?

Talking about the visit in a simple, positive way helps. Our team is experienced in making cleanings comfortable, so most kids feel right at ease once they're in the chair.

What can you expect at the appointment for Dental Exams & Cleanings?

The appointment will begin with a professional cleaning. This is performed by a licensed registered dental hygienist who uses special instruments to clear away heavy tartar buildup and surface stains. Your teeth are then polished and carefully flossed before the gums are checked for signs of inflammation or infection. Once the cleaning has been completed, we come in to perform the exam. The exam allows us to check for signs of tooth decay, loose or broken restorations and even oral cancer. To make your future appointments easier, we'll pre-schedule them before you leave the office.

If you think you might benefit from a cleaning and exam, call our office today so that one of our helpful staff members can further assist you.

Want to schedule an appointment?