Family Dentistry

Teeth Cleaning and Checkups

Taking an active role in maintaining your oral health is crucial, and scheduling professional cleanings at our office every six months is a great first step. During these visits, our dentists and hygienists will detect plaque buildup and potential issues, followed by a thorough cleaning. You’ll also receive personalized guidance on how to maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.

At The DentisTree, keeping up with regular dental cleanings and checkups is crucial for several key reasons.

First, routine cleanings effectively remove plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing can’t fully address. This not only enhances the appearance of your teeth but also plays a vital role in preventing cavities and gum disease.

Additionally, these checkups allow Dr. Kueckels to catch early signs of problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, or even oral cancer. Detecting these issues early often results in simpler, less invasive treatments, helping you avoid unnecessary discomfort and expense.

These visits also provide an opportunity to discuss any changes in your oral health, receive personalized dental care tips, and ensure that any required dental work is up to date.

By making regular cleanings and checkups a priority, you are safeguarding the health of your teeth and gums, ensuring a vibrant and healthy smile for the long term.

At The DentisTree, our dental cleaning appointments typically last about an hour, with new patient visits taking a bit longer. We take pride in getting to know each of our patients, ensuring that treatments are tailored to meet your unique health needs and goals. Here’s what you can expect during your first visit to our office:

  1. Dental History: One of our hygienists will begin by gathering your dental and medical histories to get a comprehensive understanding of your current health. This helps us identify any medical conditions that could impact your dental treatment.
  2. Digital X-rays: We take digital x-rays as part of your comprehensive oral exam. These images are essential for diagnosing and planning your treatment. If you’ve had x-rays taken within the last 12 months, please have them sent to our office before your appointment. If you are unable to have x-rays taken, please inform the hygienist when providing your medical history.
  3. Oral Screening and Teeth Exams: We will perform an oral cancer and lesion screening to check for symptoms of cancer and other systemic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Following that, we’ll examine your teeth for signs of decay and other issues.
  4. Gum Evaluation and Teeth Cleanings: Our hygienist will evaluate the health of your gums by measuring periodontal pockets with a probe. They will then thoroughly clean your teeth, focusing on removing tartar, plaque, and calculus buildup.
  5. Oral Hygiene Habits: To conclude your visit, we’ll review and reinforce proper oral hygiene practices, ensuring you have the tools and knowledge to maintain your dental health at home.

At The DentisTree, we strive to make your first visit comfortable and informative, setting the foundation for a lasting partnership in maintaining your oral health.

At The DentisTree, when you visit for a cleaning, our experienced dental hygienists meticulously remove both plaque and tartar from your teeth. While plaque is a soft film that can be removed through regular brushing, tartar is hardened plaque that requires professional tools for removal. We ensure that every surface of your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas between teeth and along the gum line where bacteria tend to collect, is thoroughly cleaned.

To finish the cleaning process, we often apply a prophy paste, which starts with a coarse texture to help eliminate any remaining plaque. As it breaks down into a finer consistency, it polishes your teeth, leaving them smooth and shiny. Additionally, we’ll point out any areas with plaque and tartar buildup so you can target those spots during your daily oral hygiene routine.

Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge and techniques to care for your teeth effectively, helping you maintain a healthy, radiant smile between your dental visits.

At The DentisTree, we recognize that most dental insurance plans cover routine cleanings because maintaining strong oral hygiene is key to preventing more serious and costly health issues in the future. Skipping regular cleanings can result in greater expenses later on, which is why investing in preventive care is both practical and essential.

We also understand that each patient has a unique financial situation, and we’re here to assist you in exploring your options. During your consultation, we will review your budget and provide clear information about any potential costs, ensuring you can fully take advantage of your insurance benefits. Our top priority is to make sure your oral health experience is smooth, successful, and stress-free.