Dental cleanings and complete exams
Our dental cleanings are performed by qualified dental hygienists. During your visit, the hygienist first does a pre-assessment of your oral health, including your gums, teeth and soft tissues. She then proceeds with scaling to remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces. She will also take any necessary X-rays to help the dentist make an accurate diagnosis.
Once the cleaning is done, the dentist will come in for a complete exam and present their findings and appropriate recommendations.
A complete exam includes:
- Review of medical history, allergies and medications
- Inspection of the soft tissues (tongue, palate, cheeks) and palpation of the lymph nodes in the neck to detect any early abnormality
- Detailed examination of each tooth to spot decay, cracks or wear of existing restorations
- Periodontal assessment by measuring the space between the tooth and the gum
- Check of the bite and the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) for signs of bruxism or dysfunction
- Digital X-rays to detect decay between teeth and assess bone height
- A panoramic X-ray for an overall view of the mouth
The exam often includes a cleaning, and you will be given personalized hygiene advice.
Finally, the dentist will draw up a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
It depends on age, the condition of the gums and the amount of tartar or stains to remove. For most adults, a cleaning and recall exam take about 60 minutes.
Are you accepting new patients? How long is the first appointment?
Yes, we accept new patients. The new-patient appointment takes about 2 hours and includes a complete exam.
What instruments do you use for scaling?
We use ultrasonic scalers, such as the Cavitron or the Piezo, for an effective, thorough and comfortable cleaning. These devices use gentle vibrations and a water spray to remove tartar, even in hard-to-reach areas.