Dental Cleanings
Dental Cleaning & Exam
At Smile By The Station Dentistry, we provide thorough dental cleanings and exams for adults and children aged four and up. Our comprehensive visits include detailed examinations, dental X-rays, and expert teeth cleaning to boost your oral health.
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Benefits of Cleaning & Exam
Regular dental cleanings and exams offer numerous advantages for your oral health:
- Catches dental issues early
- Removes stubborn plaque and tartar
- Lowers risk of cavities and gum problems
- Promotes long-term oral wellness
- Prevents the need for extensive dental work
Why Choose Us
Advanced Technology
We use cutting-edge equipment for precise and comfortable care.
Preventive Focus
Our skilled team emphasizes proactive dental health to avoid future problems.
Personalized Care
We create tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Inclusive Options
We welcome patients with and without insurance.
What To Expect
Initial Assessment
We start with a quick review of your oral health and any concerns.
X-ray Imaging
We take low-dose digital X-rays to spot hidden issues.
Professional Cleaning
Our hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth.
Dentist Examination
The dentist thoroughly checks your mouth, teeth, and gums.
Results Discussion
We explain our findings and suggest any necessary treatments.
Prep & Aftercare for Dental Cleaning & Exam
Preparation:
- Brush and floss your teeth before coming to your appointment.
- Make a list of your current medications and any health concerns.
- Plan to arrive about 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork.
Aftercare:
- Follow any specific care instructions we provide after your cleaning.
- Keep up your regular brushing and flossing routine at home.
- Book your next cleaning appointment as our team has recommended.
FAQs
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
We typically recommend cleanings every six months.
Are X-rays safe?
Yes, we use low-dose digital X-rays that minimize radiation exposure.
Will the cleaning hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort. We prioritize your comfort throughout the procedure.
Routine dental cleanings keep your smile healthy and reduce the risk of common oral health problems like cavities and gum disease. At Smile By the Station Dentistry in Seattle, Washington, cosmetic and family dentist Ok Kyu Lee, DDS, and the team provide routine dental cleanings to people of all ages. Whether you recently moved to the Seattle area and need to establish preventive care, or it’s simply been six months since your last checkup, the team can help. Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule a dental cleaning or book your appointment online.
Dental Cleanings Q&A
Are dental cleanings necessary if I brush and floss daily?
Yes. The Smile By the Station Dentistry team recommends that everyone schedules a professional dental cleaning every six months. This rule applies even if you brush and floss daily. Cavities and gum disease develop slowly and don’t always present symptoms at first. Regular dental checkups provide peace of mind and ensure your mouth stays healthy.
What do dental cleanings involve?
At Smile By the Station Dentistry, professional dental cleanings include the following:
Scaling
During scaling, your dentist or dental hygienist removes plaque –– a film of bacteria, saliva, and food particles –– from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath your gums. This step is quick and painless. The team uses an ultrasonic debridement tool, allowing for precision accuracy.
Polishing
After removing the plaque and tartar buildup, your dentist or dental hygienist polishes your teeth with gritty toothpaste. This removes a thin biofilm from the surfaces of your teeth and protects your tooth enamel from future buildup.
Preventive treatment
If your dentist determines you’re at risk of cavities, they develop a preventive treatment plan. For example, your Smile By the Station Dentistry provider might recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatment. Sealants protect your teeth from harmful bacteria, while fluoride helps strengthen your tooth enamel.
Dental X-rays
Dental X-rays use digital sensors to capture photos of your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar (the bone that anchors your upper teeth). X-rays help your dentist identify oral health problems like cavities, infections, and bone loss.
Treatment recommendations
If your dentist identifies gum disease or tooth decay during your dental cleaning, they make personalized treatment recommendations. For example, if you have a cavity, they might fill it to prevent further damage. Likewise, if you have gum disease, they might prescribe antibiotics to keep the infection from spreading.
What are the advantages of routine dental cleanings?
Routine dental cleanings at Smile By the Station Dentistry offer various advantages, including:
- Reduced risk of cavities and gum disease
- A healthier mouth
- Improved whole-body health
- Fresh breath
Regular dental cleanings also save you money. Staying on top of your oral health significantly reduces your risk of complex dental work, like root canals and oral surgery.
Call Smile By the Station Dentistry today to schedule a dental cleaning for yourself or your child, or book an appointment online.