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Exam and Dental Cleaning

Typically, You would expect to receive a full mouth exam and dental cleaning for your first appointment.

What to expect during your dental exam and cleaning appointment?

  1. Full Mouth Exam: Your dentist will perform a comprehensive examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums to assess your oral health. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, and any dental issues.

  2. Full Mouth X-rays: If necessary, X-rays may be taken to get a detailed view of your teeth, jawbone, and surrounding structures. These can help identify hidden issues like cavities between teeth and potential jaw problems.

  3. Cancer Screening: Dentists often conduct oral cancer screenings by examining the tissues in your mouth and throat for any signs of abnormalities, lesions, or lumps.

  4. TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) Screening: The dentist may assess the function and health of your jaw joints to identify any signs of TMJ disorders, which can cause jaw pain and discomfort.

  5. Intraoral Photos: Intraoral cameras may be used to capture detailed images of your mouth, teeth, and gums. These images provide a visual record of your oral health and help in treatment planning.

  6. Dental Cleaning: A dental hygienist will perform a professional dental cleaning, which includes scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup, polishing to make your teeth smooth and clean, and flossing to ensure your gums are healthy.

  7. Discussion and Recommendations: After the examination and cleaning, your dentist will discuss their findings and recommend any necessary treatments or preventive measures. This is also an opportunity to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Overall, your first dental appointment is a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health, including preventive care, early detection of issues, and guidance on maintaining a healthy smile. It sets the foundation for ongoing dental care and helps ensure the longevity of your teeth and gums.

Why do I need a dental cleaning?

Quick answer: dental cleaning helps you keep your teeth healthy, and also avoid expensive dental treatments in the future.

Not only do regular cleanings helps you quash dental problems before they arise, they leave your gums healthier, and your teeth cleaner and whiter.

A professional dental cleaning removes hard plaque that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone. It also involves a fluoride treatment and polish to help protect and soothe your teeth and gums. Even if you haven’t had a cleaning in over two years, it’s never too late to treat your teeth.

How often should I receive dental cleanings?


The frequency of professional teeth cleanings, also known as dental prophylaxis, can vary from person to person depending on individual oral health needs. In general, most people should have professional teeth cleanings on the following schedule:

  1. Every 6 Months (Twice a Year): This is the standard recommendation for individuals with good oral health and a low risk of dental problems. Regular biannual cleanings help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, maintain healthy gums, and address minor issues before they become major problems.

  2. Every 3-4 Months: Some individuals, particularly those with a history of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) or other dental concerns, may benefit from more frequent cleanings. Your dentist or dental hygienist will recommend this schedule if necessary.

It's important to note that the recommended frequency of professional teeth cleanings can vary based on factors such as your age, overall health, diet, smoking habits, and the presence of dental conditions. Your dentist or dental hygienist will assess your oral health and provide personalized recommendations during your regular check-up appointments.

Regular dental cleanings are crucial for preventing dental problems, maintaining fresh breath, and ensuring overall oral health. Regardless of the recommended schedule, it's essential to follow your dentist's advice and attend routine dental check-ups to keep your smile in its best condition.

Pricing

If you have dental insurance (see dental insurances we accept):

A lot of dental insurances cover 80-100% of fee for cleaning, at least twice a year.

We will help verify your dental insurance and give you an estimate of cost. 

Please call our front desk and provide us with your dental insurance information.

if you don’t have dental insurance:

Ask our office about Captain Dental Insurance Plan (Office number: 408-826-4676)

First time patient: $250 for a new patient exam + regular dental cleaning.

Existing patient: $150 for a dental cleaning