Cleanings & Prevention

Your dentist will perform a thorough examination upon your first visit. Visits thereafter may include these preventive measures:

Digital X-Rays aid in the diagnostic process and diagnosis of conditions in the mouth, tooth, and root positioning.

Oral cancer screenings allow your dentist to check for lumps or tissue irregularities in and around your mouth which may be an early indicator of oral cancer.

Periodontal screening determines proper treatment and will help prevent the onset of gum disease.

Check your mouth for signs of decay, the structure of existing restorations such as fillings, bridges, crowns, and the like.

We firmly believe that healthy oral hygiene starts at home, and the best way to battle dental disease is to prevent it at the start. Your two primary weapons against dental disease are proper brushing and flossing of the teeth, gums, and mouth.

It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each session, with the most important brush coming at night before bed. Most experts agree that a soft-bristled, small-headed brush is most effective at removing plaque and other debris from teeth, as it can get to hard-to-reach areas of the mouth without scratching or irritating the teeth or gums.

When brushing, position the toothbrush along the gum line at approximately 45 degrees and brush gently in a circular, rolling motion. Be sure the toothbrush bristles are always in contact with the gums. Repeat this motion 2 or 3 teeth at a time, making sure to reach the inner, outer, and biting surfaces of each tooth. Finally, brush the surface of your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria and maintain fresh breath.

Be sure to replace your toothbrush (or toothbrush head) every several months to avoid the buildup of bacteria and gradual softening of bristles.

Often viewed incorrectly as just an optional supplement to brushing, the fact is that proper flossing is just as important as brushing in the protection of your teeth, bone, and gums. Flossing dislodges plaque from between teeth and the gumline, which is where gingivitis often starts. If you find normal floss difficult to use, floss holders are also a suitable alternative.

To start, wrap about a foot (or more) of floss around the middle fingers of each hand, with a 2” stretch of floss in between. Use your thumbs to guide the zig-zag flossing motion between your upper teeth. Be sure to curve the floss around the edge of each tooth and underneath the gum line.

After you have finished proper brushing and flossing (as well as after meals), be sure to rinse with water in order to rid your mouth of any residual bacteria or debris.

Our use of digital x-ray technology and scanning technology reduces your radiation exposure and eliminates the use of chemicals. We can see and treat problems long before they become visible on traditional x-rays. The increased precision means saving you time and money and avoiding complications with your treatments.

Fluoride treatment is commonly only given to children, but if you’re an adult and have chronic dry mouth, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, frequent cavities, low intake of fluoride or tooth decay, a fluoride varnish can be an excellent treatment. Just ask your hygienist about fluoride when you’re here for your hygiene visit.

Also, our membership plan includes fluoride, so please be sure to take advantage of this great preventive benefit.

Normal pits and grooves on the chewing surfaces of back teeth can trap food that can’t easily be removed with brushing. A sealant is a tough tooth-colored material that is designed to bond to tooth enamel. These sealants are painted onto the tooth surface to seal pits and grooves and protect against decay. We recommend applying these to children’s teeth once they have permanent back teeth in place. They can also be useful to adults in some situations.