Dental Exams & Cleanings
Prevention is key in maintaining a high standard of oral health and lower dental costs. The most effective prevention plan requires everyone to be on the same page. Dr. Michelle Chang and our dedicated hygiene team will work closely with you for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Routine cleanings by your hygienist along with regular exams and updated digital x-rays are a vital part of fighting off gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontal disease (gum disease). The plaque that sits on your teeth releases bacteria which may damage your tooth enamel. If the bacteria in your mouth is not thoroughly removed, it will accumulate and lead gum inflammation. If left untreated, this gum inflammation can develop into gum disease. Gum disease causes the gums around your teeth to become loose and could eventually lead to tooth loss.
A stunning smile begins at home, and good homecare is an essential part of upholding good oral health. In addition to twice a day brushing and flossing, having a healthy diet also assists in preventative care.
What are Dental Exams & Cleanings?
Dental exams and cleanings are the foundation of good oral health. Our doctors recommend regular dental exams and cleanings for children, teenagers, and adults. You should have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. The exam is performed by one of our doctors, and the cleaning is performed by one of our dental hygienists.
Why are Dental Exams & Cleanings needed?
Dental exams are performed by our doctors to look for cavities and other signs of trouble. You also learn how to take the best care possible of your teeth, including areas that require a bit more attention. Cleanings by our dental hygienists remove plaque that builds up between your teeth and along the gum line.
Types of Cleanings
In addition to standard dental cleanings & exams, our team also offers additional cleanings that you can get at our dental office in Renton, WA.
These include:
- Prophalaxis
- Perio Maintenance
- Scaling & Root Planing
How often are Dental Exams & Cleanings needed?
We recommend that you come into the office twice a year for an exam and cleaning. By coming in regularly, we can keep up with the health of your teeth and gums, while identifying any problems early. Patients of all ages should be coming in for bi-annual exams and cleanings. It’s never too late to start taking a proactive approach to your dental care.
What can you expect during Dental Exams & Cleanings?
We begin with a cleaning that removes hardened plaque and staining from your teeth. We then polish and floss your teeth, before checking your gums for signs of inflammation and pocketing. After the cleaning is done, the doctor comes in and performs an examination. During the exam we’re looking for signs of tooth decay, problematic restorations, and other issues that could be detrimental to your oral health. If you need additional work done, this will be scheduled at a later time that is convenient for you. Exams and cleanings are done within about an hour in our office, and by coming in regularly, the appointments will be shorter and more convenient. Even if it’s been awhile since your last cleaning and exam, it’s never too late to start taking care of your teeth.
If you think you might need a dental exam and cleaning, call our office today and we will be happy to further assist you.