Buildup Beware: Why Plaque Needs a Pro
Plaque starts forming just hours after your last brushing. If you miss a spot, it hardens into tartar, which you can’t remove with a toothbrush. That buildup attracts bacteria that irritate your gums and wear away enamel. Our hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar in places you can’t reach at home. Even if your teeth look clean, buildup hides between teeth and under the gumline.
Your Dentist Isn’t Just Looking for Cavities
Dental exams do more than spot tiny holes in your teeth. We check for signs of infection, gum disease, bone loss, and oral cancer. The dentist uses visual exams, digital X-rays, and sometimes 3D scans to assess your overall oral health. We track changes over time to treat small issues before they become major ones.
What Happens During a Cleaning Appointment
A standard cleaning visit lasts about an hour. Our hygienist starts by reviewing your medical history and asking about any changes since your last visit. We use ultrasonic tools and hand scalers to remove tartar, then polish your teeth to lift surface stains. The visit ends with a flossing session and fluoride treatment if needed.
Here’s what to expect:
- Review of your oral and medical history
- Full cleaning with plaque and tartar removal
- Polishing to smooth and shine your teeth
- Flossing and fluoride as needed
What the Dentist Checks at Your Exam
After your cleaning, the dentist performs a full exam. We look for cavities, cracks, worn enamel, and gum recession. We also screen for signs of oral cancer and assess the alignment of your bite. The dentist checks your existing dental work and ensures everything is still in good shape. If we see anything concerning, we’ll explain your options and create a treatment plan.
X-rays Tell the Full Story
Some dental problems hide below the surface. That’s why we take X-rays periodically to check bone levels, root health, and developing issues between teeth. Our digital X-rays use minimal radiation and produce instant images we can review together on a screen. The dentist uses those images to guide your care and ensure nothing gets missed.
Kids Need Cleanings Too
Children benefit from early dental visits, even before all their baby teeth have come in. We recommend bringing your child in by age one to get them used to the dental chair and teach parents how to care for baby teeth. As your child grows, we monitor development, apply sealants when needed, and help kids build strong brushing habits.
How Often Should You Visit?
Most people need cleanings and exams every six months, but some may benefit from more frequent visits. If you have gum disease, orthodontic appliances, or a history of decay, we suggest cleanings every three to four months. The dentist personalizes your schedule to match your risk factors and oral health goals.
Gum Checks and Pocket Depths
Healthy gums fit snugly around your teeth. When infection sets in, those tissues pull away and form pockets. We measure those pocket depths during your exam to check for early signs of gum disease. If we see pockets deeper than 3mm, we may recommend scaling, root planing, or other gum treatments to restore your health.
Stay Ahead of Costly Surprises
Skipping routine visits can lead to bigger, more expensive problems later on. Cavities, cracked fillings, and infections often develop without pain at first. Cleanings and exams help us catch those issues early, while treatment is simple and affordable. Preventive care costs less and protects your smile better than any reactive approach.
Don’t Wait—Brighten Up with Cleanings and Exams in Atlantis
Your smile deserves consistent, high-quality care. Cleanings and exams in Atlantis help you stay ahead of decay, gum disease, and dental emergencies. Dr. Garcia and our experienced team welcome families from all over Atlantis, Florida, and we offer flexible financing to make routine care more accessible. Contact us for an appointment and keep your smile on the right track all year.