Advanced Preventive Care for a Healthy Smile
Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are the cornerstone of maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums. During these visits, your dental team carefully evaluates your oral health, including teeth, gums, and surrounding structures, while removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains. This proactive approach helps prevent decay, detect issues early, and ensures your smile stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Dental Exam
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
- Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
- Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What is included in a comprehensive dental exam?
A comprehensive dental exam includes evaluation of your diagnostic X‑rays, oral cancer screening, gum disease assessment, thorough tooth decay examination, and review of existing restorations like fillings or crowns. These exams help detect problems early and keep your smile healthy.
Q.
How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?
Most patients benefit from dental exams and professional cleanings every six months. Regular visits ensure early detection of issues such as cavities, gum disease, and oral health changes before they become serious.
Q.
Do dental exams and cleanings help detect other health issues?
Yes. Dental exams can reveal signs related to general health conditions like diabetes or heart disease, as oral health is closely linked to overall wellness.
Q.
Why are professional dental cleanings necessary if I brush and floss every day?
Even with excellent at‑home care, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional using special instruments. Cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.
Q.
What happens during a professional dental cleaning?
During your cleaning, a registered dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, polish your teeth to remove surface stains, and help assess gum health — all key steps in preventing periodontal disease.
Q.
How long does a dental exam and cleaning appointment take?
Most dental exams and cleanings take about 30–60 minutes, depending on your oral health needs. This allows time for a thorough evaluation and gentle, professional cleaning.