About cleanings & exams
A professional dental cleaning removes the hardened plaque (tartar) that even excellent home brushing and flossing cannot reach. Your hygienist also polishes the teeth to remove surface staining, then walks you through the brushing and flossing technique that actually works for your unique mouth.
A comprehensive exam happens at the same visit. Your doctor reviews your digital x-rays, performs an oral-cancer screening, evaluates your gums, looks for signs of grinding or bite problems, and discusses any concerns with you on a chairside screen — so you understand exactly what is going on with your mouth.
For most patients, this happens twice a year. Patients with a history of gum disease or higher cavity risk may benefit from more frequent visits. We will recommend the schedule that fits your situation, never one that is heavier than you actually need.
When you might need this
If any of the following sound familiar, it may be time to schedule a visit. Only a doctor can diagnose your specific situation, but these are common reasons patients come in for cleanings & exams.
It has been more than six months
Most adults benefit from a cleaning every six months even when nothing feels wrong. Routine prevention is the cheapest dentistry there is.
Bleeding gums when you brush
Healthy gums do not bleed. Bleeding is an early sign of gingivitis, which is fully reversible with a professional cleaning and good home care.
Bad breath that does not go away
Persistent bad breath is often caused by bacteria trapped below the gumline that brushing cannot reach.
Visible tartar or staining
Yellow or brown buildup along the gumline is hardened plaque. Only professional instruments can remove it safely.
You have never had x-rays at our office
A baseline set of digital x-rays is essential for catching cavities, bone loss, and other problems that are invisible during a visual exam.
You are a new patient establishing care
A cleaning + comprehensive exam is the standard first visit and lets us build a complete record of your oral health.
Your visit, step by step
- 01
Welcome and update
We confirm your medical history, any new medications, and any concerns you would like to discuss before getting started.
- 02
Digital x-rays
We take a small set of low-radiation digital images. They appear instantly on the chairside screen for your doctor to review with you.
- 03
Hands-on cleaning
Your hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline using gentle ultrasonic and hand instruments. Polish and floss complete the cleaning.
- 04
Comprehensive exam
Your doctor checks every tooth, the soft tissue of your mouth, your gums, and your bite. Oral-cancer screening happens at every visit.
- 05
Findings and plan
We review what we found together — including images and intra-oral camera shots when relevant — and outline a clear plan if any treatment is recommended.
- 06
Schedule your next visit
You leave with your next cleaning on the calendar and a written copy of any treatment plan.
Why patients choose us for this
Low-radiation digital imaging
Our digital x-ray system delivers up to 90% less radiation than traditional film while producing instantly reviewable images.
Gentle hygienists
Our hygienists are experienced, patient, and famous for the comfortable touch they bring to every cleaning.
Conservative care
We never recommend treatment you do not need. If a watch-and-wait approach is appropriate, that is what you will hear from us.
On-time appointments
We respect your schedule. Cleanings start when they are supposed to start and end when they are supposed to end.