Teeth Cleaning & Dental Checkups

There are many ways you can play an active role in maintaining your oral health. Having your teeth cleaned in our office with scheduled recalls is an excellent place to start. Our hygienists and dentists identify problem areas before thoroughly cleaning your teeth, providing you with information to sustain a happy, healthy smile.

Why is it important to have consistent teeth cleanings and checkups?

Routine checkups are an essential part of proper oral hygiene. Some of the benefits of regular teeth cleanings include:

• Healthier bones and gums.
• Longer lasting teeth.
• Early detection and treatment of cancer and other oral health conditions.
• Beautiful, healthy smiles.

What happens when we miss teeth cleanings?

Failure to keep up on proper oral hygiene can lead to:

• An impaired ability to eat and digest foods.
• Bad breath, resulting from advancing periodontal disease and/or rotting food particles.
• Negative effects on cardiovascular well-being and overall health.
• Gum infection and other complications.

What to Expect at Your First Checkup

Our dental cleaning appointments are about an hour-long, and we reserve 2-hours for new patient visits. We take pride in getting to know each of our patients, tailoring treatments to the health needs and goals of every individual. Here’s what to expect the first time you come to our office:

• Dental History—A hygienist will gather dental and medical histories so that we have a clear picture of your current health, including any medical conditions that can impact dental treatment.

• Digital X-rays—We take digital x-rays as diagnostic material for your comprehensive oral exam. If you have had x-rays taken within the last 12 months, please have them sent to our office. 

• Oral Screening and Teeth Exams—we examine your teeth for decay.

• Gum Evaluation and Teeth Cleanings—Our hygienist will evaluate your gums, measuring periodontal pockets with a probe, and clean your teeth by identifying and removing areas of tartar, plaque, and calculus.

• Oral Hygiene Habits—We end your visit by reviewing and reinforcing proper oral hygiene.

Proper Oral Hygiene: How to Prevent Tooth Decay

There are several simple and affordable ways in which you can fight tooth decay—a common chronic health condition.

1. Brush twice and floss once daily.
2. Have routine dental cleanings and checkups.
3. Eat fewer sugary and acidic foods.
4. Ask your dental team about additional cleaning products.