Cleanings & Exams

Cleanings and Exams for a Healthier Smile

Keeping your smile healthy and bright is easy with regular dental cleanings and exams. Our friendly dental hygienists gently refresh your teeth, removing any buildup that your regular brushing might miss. This careful process helps keep your teeth strong and your gums happy. Afterward, they'll polish your teeth to a sparkle, making them smooth and resistant to future buildup. Following your cleaning, one of our experienced dentists will closely examine your smile for signs of decay. We will also assess the condition of previous restorations, including fillings, bridges, crowns, and implants.

Digital X-Rays

The dentist will perform comprehensive dental X-rays to check for decay, cavities, cysts, tumors, bone loss, and other potential issues. X-rays will also allow the dentist to map tooth and root positions to monitor changes over time. X-rays also give dentists a visual reference so they can better explain conditions and treatment options to patients.

Gum Disease Screenings

Your hygienist will inspect your gums and the bone around your teeth for any signs of gum disease. They will perform tests using a periodontal probe, a small measuring stick that can determine pocket depth. While healthy depths measure between 1 and 3 millimeters, larger numbers can indicate pockets of infection requiring treatment.

Oral Cancer Screenings

Early detection is essential to promoting positive outcomes since oral cancer can go unnoticed for years before obvious symptoms arise. With this in mind, your dentist will inspect your oral tissue for any lumps, lesions, or discolorations, which could be a sign of oral cancer. This will include your mouth, gums, tongue, lips, and neck. If the dentist suspects a potential issue, a biopsy may be suggested to test suspicious tissue for cancer cells.

Is It Time For a Dental Cleaning or Exam?

Generally, dental professionals recommend getting a dental cleaning every six months. This schedule allows for regular removal of plaque and tartar buildup, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. However, some individuals may need more frequent cleanings, such as those with a history of gum disease, smokers, pregnant women, or people with certain medical conditions like diabetes. Your dentist can advise on the best cleaning schedule for your specific needs.

You may need a comprehensive dental examination if you experience persistent tooth pain, swollen or bleeding gums, sensitivity to hot or cold, visible changes in your teeth or gums, or it's been over a year since your last exam. Other signs include persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite. Additionally, if you've recently undergone major health changes or started new medications, a comprehensive exam may be warranted. Remember, regular check-ups can catch issues early, so don't wait for symptoms to appear before scheduling an exam.

What to Expect

When you arrive for your dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will typically begin by reviewing your medical history and addressing any concerns you may have. The cleaning process starts with a physical exam of your mouth using a small mirror to check your teeth and gums for any signs of issues. Next, the hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, a process called scaling. You may hear scraping sounds, which is normal.

After scaling, the hygienist will polish your teeth using a gritty toothpaste-like substance and a high-powered electric brush, which gives your teeth a deep clean and removes any remaining stains. This is followed by expert flossing to clean between your teeth. Many cleanings also include a fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth against cavities. The hygienist or dentist may also provide advice on improving your at-home oral care routine. If any issues are detected, they'll discuss them with you and may recommend further treatment or a more comprehensive exam.