Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings and Checkups
Consistent preventive visits do more than keep your smile looking bright. They protect your health, your time, and your budget. Here is what patients gain from routine cleanings and exams.
- Cavity prevention. Removing plaque and tartar reduces the bacteria that cause tooth decay.
- Healthier gums. Regular cleanings help control the buildup that can lead to gingivitis and more advanced gum disease.
- Early detection. Small cavities, cracked fillings, and gum changes are far easier to treat when they are caught early.
- Fresher breath. Professional cleaning removes the buildup that is a common source of persistent bad breath.
- A brighter smile. Polishing removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and other everyday habits.
- Oral cancer screening. Each exam is an opportunity to check for changes in the mouth that could need attention.
- Whole body health. Oral health is connected to overall wellness, so caring for your gums and teeth supports your health beyond your smile.
- Lower long term costs. Prevention is almost always more comfortable and less costly than treating advanced problems.
Who Should Schedule a Dental Cleaning and Exam?
Nearly everyone benefits from routine preventive care. If you have not had a checkup in a while, it is never too late to start fresh with a visit that is comfortable and free of judgment. A cleaning and exam is a great fit for several groups of patients.
- Children and teens, who benefit from early monitoring of growing teeth and healthy habits
- Adults of every age, including those with no current symptoms
- Patients with fillings, crowns, bridges, or dental implants, which need regular monitoring and care
- Anyone who has noticed bleeding gums, bad breath, sensitivity, or new stains
- Patients who are overdue for a visit and want a clear picture of their current oral health
- Families who want preventive care for everyone in one convenient place
If your exam shows signs of gum disease, we will explain your options clearly. Some patients may benefit from a deeper treatment such as scaling and root planing before returning to a regular cleaning schedule.
A Step by Step Look at Your Dental Cleaning Visit
Many people feel nervous when they are unsure what to expect. Knowing each step can make your visit more relaxing. Here is how a professional cleaning typically works, from the moment you sit down to the moment you leave with a fresh, smooth feeling.
01
Review and Evaluation
We begin by talking with you about your health, any concerns, and your goals. Our team then evaluates your teeth and gums and takes any needed images.
02
Ultrasonic Tartar Removal
An ultrasonic device gently loosens larger pieces of tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline.
03
Hand Scaling
A hand instrument is then used to remove smaller deposits and smooth the tooth surfaces.
04
Polishing
Your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and create a smooth finish. A smoother surface makes it harder for new plaque to collect.
05
Flossing
Your teeth are flossed to clear away any remaining debris between them.
06
Exam and Review
Our team reviews our findings with you, answers your questions, and recommends any next steps. You will also receive simple home care guidance tailored to your needs.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
Most patients are advised to schedule a cleaning and exam twice a year, about every six months. This rhythm is long enough to be convenient and short enough to stop plaque and tartar from building up and causing damage.
Some patients benefit from more frequent visits. Your recommended schedule may depend on several factors.
- A history of gum disease or frequent cavities
- Fast tartar buildup
- Dental implants, bridges, or other restorations that need close monitoring
- Certain medical conditions or medications that affect oral health
- Dry mouth, smoking, or tobacco use
During your exam, we will recommend a schedule that matches your specific needs, so you are never doing more or less than you need.
Insurance and Payment for Preventive Visits
Many dental plans cover preventive care such as exams and cleanings at a high level, which makes these visits one of the smartest ways to use your benefits. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid, and we are in network with Delta Dental Premier. Our team will verify your coverage and explain your costs before your visit. Visit our Insurance and Financing page to learn more.
Ready for a Healthier, Brighter Smile?
A clean, healthy mouth starts with one simple appointment. Whether it has been six months or six years since your last visit, our team is ready to welcome you with a thorough exam, a gentle cleaning, and clear advice you can use. Schedule your dental cleaning and exam at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH today.
Book Your Cleaning and ExamFrequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings and Exams
Most patients should get a professional cleaning and exam twice a year, or about every six months. Patients with gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain health conditions may need more frequent visits. During your exam, we will recommend a schedule based on your needs.
A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and polishes them. A dental exam is an evaluation of your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health to check for cavities, gum disease, and other concerns. They are usually done during the same visit.
A cleaning typically begins with an ultrasonic device that loosens large pieces of tartar. A hand instrument then removes smaller deposits, your teeth are polished to remove stains and smooth the surface, and they are flossed. You will also receive guidance on home care.
Most patients find cleanings comfortable. You may notice some pressure or mild sensitivity, especially if you have not had a cleaning in a while or if your gums are inflamed. Let our team know if you feel any discomfort, and we will adjust to keep you comfortable.
Not always. We take digital X-rays and intraoral images when they are needed to see between teeth and below the gumline. How often depends on your history, your risk for cavities and gum disease, and the date of your last images.
A comprehensive exam includes an evaluation of your teeth and gums, an oral cancer screening, an assessment of your bite and TMJ, and a look at possible airway concerns. Digital X-rays and images are added when needed, and we review the findings with you afterward.
Many dental plans cover preventive care such as routine cleanings and exams at a high level. We accept all insurance plans except Medicaid and are in network with Delta Dental Premier. Our team can verify your benefits before your visit so you know what to expect.
Schedule a visit as soon as you can. There is no judgment, and we will start with a thorough exam to see where your oral health stands. If you need a deeper cleaning or other treatment, we will explain your options and build a plan that works for you.
