Regular dental cleanings and comprehensive exams form the foundation of excellent oral health, helping you maintain a bright smile while preventing serious dental problems before they develop. At Arlington Family Dentistry, we prioritize preventive care through thorough cleaning and dental exam services that keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come. Dr. Dongho Kim, DDS and our experienced team combine gentle techniques with advanced diagnostic tools to ensure every visit leaves you feeling confident about your oral health.
Understanding Cleaning and Dental Exam
A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate, while a comprehensive dental exam evaluates your overall oral health. During a cleaning, dental hygienists use specialized instruments to carefully remove hardened deposits from above and below the gum line, followed by polishing to smooth tooth surfaces and remove surface stains.
The dental exam portion involves a thorough evaluation of your teeth, gums, tongue, and surrounding oral tissues. This examination checks for signs of decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions that could impact your health. Digital X-rays may be taken to reveal problems not visible during the visual examination, ensuring potential issues are caught early when treatment is most effective.
Benefits of Cleaning and Dental Exam
Prevents Tooth Decay and Cavities
Regular cleanings remove bacterial plaque that produces acids, which attack tooth enamel and create cavities. Professional removal of these harmful deposits significantly reduces your risk of developing decay. Early detection during exams allows for prompt treatment of small problems before they require extensive procedures.
Reduces Gum Disease Risk
Thorough cleaning eliminates tartar buildup along the gum line, preventing inflammation and infection that leads to gingivitis and periodontitis. Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your teeth and contribute to overall health. Regular maintenance helps preserve your natural teeth throughout your lifetime.
Detects Oral Health Problems Early
Comprehensive exams identify potential issues like oral cancer, tooth grinding damage, and structural problems before symptoms appear. Early detection often means simpler, less expensive treatments with better outcomes. Regular monitoring allows us to track changes in your oral health over time.
Improves Overall Health Outcomes
Poor oral health connects to serious conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, making preventive care essential for total wellness. Clean teeth and healthy gums reduce harmful bacteria that can enter your bloodstream. Good oral hygiene supports your immune system and reduces inflammation throughout your body.
Maintains Fresh Breath and Confidence
Professional cleanings remove odor-causing bacteria and food particles that contribute to persistent bad breath. Polished teeth feel smooth and clean, giving you confidence in social and professional situations. A healthy, attractive smile positively impacts your self-esteem and how others perceive you.
Our Cleaning and Dental Exam Process
Welcome and Health Review
We begin every appointment by reviewing your medical history, current medications, and any concerns about your oral health. Dr. Dongho Kim discusses your daily oral care routine and identifies areas where improvements might benefit your teeth and gums. This comprehensive approach ensures we understand your unique needs and can tailor your care accordingly.
Professional Plaque and Tartar Removal
Based on your individual oral health status, we develop a personalized cleaning protocol that addresses your specific requirements. Our skilled hygienists use specialized instruments to remove hardened deposits from above and below the gum line with gentle precision. We take extra care in sensitive areas while ensuring thorough removal of all bacterial buildup.
Comprehensive Oral Health Examination
The comprehensive exam includes visual inspection, digital imaging when necessary, and careful evaluation of all oral structures. We check each tooth for signs of decay, examine your gums for inflammation or disease, and screen for oral cancer or other abnormalities. You’ll receive clear explanations of our findings and have opportunities to ask questions about your oral health.
Polishing and Protective Treatments
Following the deep cleaning, we polish your teeth to remove surface stains and create smooth surfaces that resist future plaque buildup. A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen tooth enamel and provide additional protection against decay. This final step leaves your teeth feeling exceptionally clean and refreshed.
Personalized Care Planning and Scheduling
We schedule your next appointment before you leave and may recommend additional treatments if we discover any issues during your exam. Our team provides personalized recommendations for maintaining optimal oral health at home between visits. Consistent follow-up care helps us monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Why Choose Us for Cleaning and Dental Exam
Arlington Family Dentistry combines years of experience with a genuine commitment to patient comfort and satisfaction, ensuring every cleaning and exam exceeds your expectations. Dr. Dongho Kim, DDS and our team stay current with the latest preventive care techniques and use advanced technology to provide thorough, gentle treatments that protect your oral health. We believe in building long-term relationships with our patients, taking time to understand your concerns and goals for your smile.
We create a welcoming environment where patients of all ages feel comfortable and confident in their dental care. From our friendly staff to our modern facility, every aspect of your visit is designed to make your experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible.
Secure Your Family’s Healthiest Smiles Today!
Don’t wait until problems develop – proactive dental care through regular cleanings and exams protects your smile and saves money over time. Our comprehensive approach to preventive dentistry helps you achieve and maintain the healthy, confident smile you deserve. Dr. Dongho Kim, DDS at Arlington Family Dentistry is committed to helping you achieve and maintain the healthy, confident smile you deserve.
Call our practice today at 360-658-7741 to reserve your preventive care appointment and experience the difference personalized dental attention makes for your family’s oral health. Stay connected with our dental community through social media, where we share evidence-based oral hygiene techniques, seasonal dental health reminders, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of our commitment to keeping Arlington smiles healthy.
FAQs
What is deep cleaning of teeth?
Deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, removes bacteria and tartar from below the gum line to treat gum disease. This procedure smooths tooth roots, helping gums reattach and heal properly. Deep cleaning typically requires local anesthesia and may be performed over multiple appointments depending on severity.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
A routine dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on plaque buildup and individual needs. Patients with excellent oral hygiene may require less time, while those with more buildup need additional attention. The appointment includes scaling, polishing, flossing, and often a fluoride treatment.
How long after dental cleaning can I eat?
You can eat immediately after a routine dental cleaning, though waiting 30 minutes after fluoride treatment maximizes its protective benefits. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for a few hours if you experience sensitivity. Your dentist will provide specific dietary guidelines if additional procedures were performed during your visit.
What are you doing to keep patients safe?
A dental exam is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, including visual inspection of teeth, gums, tongue, and throat. Digital X-rays may be taken to detect hidden problems like cavities between teeth or bone loss. The exam screens for decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions affecting your overall health.
How long does a dental exam take?
A comprehensive dental exam typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your oral health complexity and whether additional diagnostic procedures are needed. New patients may require more time for thorough initial evaluation and medical history review. The exam is often combined with your cleaning appointment for convenience.
How often do you need a dental exam?
Most patients benefit from dental exams every six months to maintain optimal oral health and catch problems early when treatment is most effective. Individuals with higher risk factors like gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain medical conditions may need more frequent examinations every three to four months. Your dentist will recommend the ideal frequency based on your individual needs.
