Exams & Cleanings
The most underrated appointment in dentistry.
A thorough exam and a careful cleaning — twice a year, every year — prevents most of the dental problems we treat downstream. We take these visits seriously, even when they are routine.
What happens at your exam
What "comprehensive" actually means
A real comprehensive dental exam is more than a quick look in your mouth. Done well, it is a complete evaluation of your oral health — including things you cannot see and things that will not bother you yet but will if left alone. Here is what we do:
Visual examination of every tooth.
Decay, cracks, wear patterns, old restorations that may be failing — all of it gets a careful look.
Periodontal evaluation.
We measure the depth of the small space between your teeth and gums (called the sulcus) at multiple points around each tooth. These measurements are how we detect gum disease early — before you would notice anything yourself.
Oral cancer screening.
A careful check of your tongue, the floor of your mouth, the inside of your cheeks, and the back of your throat. Oral cancer is highly treatable when caught early.
Bite and TMJ evaluation.
How your teeth come together, signs of grinding or clenching, and any tension or dysfunction in the jaw joint.
Digital X-rays as needed.
Modern digital X-rays use a fraction of the radiation of older film X-rays and produce images we can review on screen with you, point to specifically, and explain clearly.
Existing restorations check.
Old fillings, crowns, and other dental restorations need monitoring. We catch problems with existing restorations before they fail.
A real conversation.
What are you noticing? Anything sensitive? Any concerns? Goals you want to discuss? We listen.
The cleaning itself
Your professional cleaning
A professional cleaning removes the buildup that home brushing and flossing cannot reach — the hardened tartar (also called calculus) that forms below the gumline and on the back surfaces of teeth. Left in place, it harbors bacteria that drive both decay and gum disease.
Our hygienists are skilled, careful, and genuinely good at making cleanings comfortable. If you have avoided cleanings because of past discomfort or anxiety, talk to us. There is almost always a way to make the appointment work for you.
Frequency
Every six months — or more often, depending
The standard recommendation is twice a year for most adults. But "standard" is not always right for every patient. Some patients need cleanings every three or four months — typically those with a history of gum disease, certain medical conditions, or risk factors that make plaque accumulate more quickly. Others can extend to a longer interval.
We will recommend the right interval for you based on your specific oral health, and adjust it over time as things change. The goal is always the same: keep small issues small.
Been a while?
Coming back after a long gap
A lot of people avoid the dentist for years — sometimes a decade or more — and dread coming back because they assume they will be lectured or judged. We do not do that.
Whatever brought you in, we are glad you are here. We will start with a thorough exam, prioritize what matters most, and build a plan you can actually follow. There is no shame in a long gap. There is just the care to provide now.
Frequently asked
Common questions
How long does a cleaning appointment take?
A typical cleaning and exam runs about an hour. New patient appointments take a bit longer because we capture additional records.
Will it hurt?
For most patients, no — cleanings are comfortable. For patients with gum inflammation or sensitivity, we have ways to make the appointment more comfortable. Talk to us if you have had painful cleanings in the past.
Do you take my insurance?
We accept most major dental insurance plans as an out-of-network provider and file claims on your behalf as a courtesy. Our team will perform a complimentary benefits check before your appointment to explain exactly what your plan covers at our office.
I have not been to the dentist in years. What should I expect?
A complete exam, a conversation, and a plan. That is it. Whatever shape your teeth are in, we will take it from there.
Do you see children?
Our practice is primarily focused on adult care, though we do see children occasionally — especially family members of existing patients.
Due for a cleaning?
Schedule online or give us a call. New patients are welcome.