A professional cleaning and exam is the most important appointment you will have with us. It is where we keep small things small, catch new problems early, and reset your mouth so your at-home brushing has the best chance of keeping you healthy.
What it is
A cleaning and exam is two parts in one visit:
- Cleaning — your hygienist gently removes plaque and tartar buildup, polishes the surfaces of your teeth, and flosses between every tooth. We can also apply fluoride at the end if your dentist recommends it.
- Exam — your dentist checks each tooth for decay, looks at your gums for early signs of disease, examines your bite, and screens the soft tissues of your mouth for anything unusual. X-rays may be taken if you are due for them or if we need to look more closely at a specific area.
Some patients with gum problems need a deeper cleaning called scaling and root planing. We will let you know if that is the right step for you and explain what is involved before booking it.
What to expect
Most cleaning and exam visits take about 45 to 60 minutes. You will:
- Check in and update us on any health changes since your last visit
- Settle into the chair while we take any X-rays your dentist needs
- Have your hygienist clean and polish your teeth — most of this is quiet, careful work
- Meet your dentist for the exam and a chat about anything they noticed
- Leave with a clean smile, a copy of any findings, and your next visit booked
If you have not been to a dentist in a long time, the first cleaning can take a little longer. That is normal — let us know and we will plan extra time so it is not rushed.
Who it’s for
Most adults benefit from a cleaning and exam twice a year. You should also schedule one if you:
- Notice bleeding when you brush or floss
- Have bad breath that does not go away
- Feel a rough spot, chip, or new sensitivity
- Are starting orthodontic treatment or planning cosmetic work
- Are pregnant or planning a pregnancy
- Are due — even if nothing hurts
Kids usually start cleanings around age one to three, depending on how their teeth are coming in. We are gentle with first-time patients and explain everything in a friendly way.
This page is general information about a common dental procedure and is not medical advice. Treatment recommendations depend on each patient's situation — please call us with any questions about your own care.
