Dental exams and cleanings are an essential part of maintaining exceptional oral health and preventing more serious dental issues over time. At Smile For Life Dental in Elgin, Il, our skilled and compassionate team offers general and preventative dental care for patients of all ages. To learn more about the cleaning and exam process, we invite you to explore the informative sections below. To schedule an appointment, please contact us today.
Good oral hygiene habits are crucial for maintaining both dental health and overall health, preventing conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Maintaining a healthy mouth can also reduce the risk of infections that can spread to other parts of the body. Dr. Dean Lodding and his team believe in the importance of educating patients about the mouth-body connection, which refers to the scientifically-founded links between oral health and general wellness. At Smile For Life Dental, we aim to help patients understand their health on a holistic level, which is why we offer expansive preventative and diagnostic services, including oral DNA testing.
Exams and cleanings are routine preventative services performed during regular dental appointments. During these exams, your dental team will have a chance to assess your teeth, gums, and other oral structures, enabling them to proactively diagnose and treat any potential concerns. Professional cleaning services help remove more stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be addressed through brushing and flossing alone, reducing the risk of gum disease and other conditions.
During a dental exam, a dentist or hygienist inspects your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral issues. They may take X-rays to detect problems not visible to the naked eye. Following the exam, a dental cleaning is performed to remove plaque and tartar buildup. This involves scaling to remove hardened deposits and polishing to eliminate surface stains. Regular exams and cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy. These visits are typically recommended every six months to maintain optimal oral health.
A dental cleaning typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. The duration depends on the amount of plaque and tartar buildup and the patient’s oral health. Regular cleanings and good at-home maintenance help ensure the process remains quick and efficient.
At-home oral hygiene routines should be a regular part of every patient’s life, and Dr. Lodding encourages patients to brush and floss at least twice a day—especially after waking up in the morning and before going to bed—to remove bacteria and food particles. Twice yearly dental visits should also be scheduled so that a dental professional can do a more thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums with professional equipment.
It is generally recommended that patients visit the dentist for a cleaning every six months. This frequency may vary based on factors such as age and whether a patient has any outstanding dental or orthodontic conditions.
Dental cleanings are considered a form of preventative care, and most insurance plans will cover all or most of the associated costs. Depending on the nature of your dental coverage, more advanced procedures—such as gum disease treatment or dental fillings—may incur an additional charge. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will be happy to assist you in navigating your coverage.