Dental Exams and Teeth Cleanings

Your regular dental exam and cleaning is the cornerstone of good oral health. It’s not just about keeping your teeth sparkly (though that’s definitely a nice bonus)—these routine visits help us catch small problems before they become painful, expensive emergencies. Think of it as preventative maintenance for your smile.

At Dentistry on 43, we’ve designed our exams and cleanings to be thorough without feeling rushed, comfortable without being intimidating, and informative without being preachy. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, our team is here to help you get back on track with care that feels genuinely supportive.

Here’s what happens during your cleaning:

Comprehensive Assessment

Your cleaning begins with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums. We look for plaque buildup, tartar, and any early signs of gum disease or cavities. This helps us tailor your cleaning to your unique oral health needs.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)

Biofilm is the sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums and can lead to cavities or gum disease. GBT is a step-by-step, evidWhy Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings Matter

You brush and floss at home (most days, at least), so why do you need professional cleanings? Here’s the truth: even with great home care, plaque and tartar build up in spots your toothbrush can’t reach. Over time, this buildup leads to cavities, gum disease, and other problems that are much harder to fix than they are to prevent.

Regular dental exams do more than just check for cavities. We’re looking at the big picture of your oral health—gum condition, jaw function, signs of teeth grinding, early indicators of oral cancer, and how your bite is affecting your overall wellbeing. 

What to Expect During Your Teeth Cleaning & Dental Exam

At our office, we take a modern, evidence-based approach to dental cleanings. Instead of the traditional “regular” or “deep” cleanings, we use Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) paired with our EMS and WoodPecker ultrasonic units to deliver a safe, effective, and comfortable cleaning experience for every patient.

ence-based approach to remove biofilm efficiently and gently. This ensures that even hard-to-reach areas are thoroughly cleaned without causing unnecessary discomfort.

 

Ultrasonic Cleaning with EMS and WoodPecker

We use advanced EMS and WoodPecker ultrasonic devices to remove tartar and plaque from your teeth. These tools vibrate at high frequencies, breaking up hardened deposits while minimizing discomfort. Using both units allows our hygienists to adapt to each patient’s needs, making the cleaning as precise and gentle as possible.

Polishing and Rinsing

After removing biofilm and tartar, your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them smooth and refreshed. A final rinse ensures your mouth feels clean and healthy.

Personalized Advice and Guidance

Every cleaning concludes with helpful tips for maintaining your oral health at home. Our team will answer any questions you have and provide guidance on brushing, flossing, and other preventive care techniques.

 

Why choose our approach?

By combining GBT with EMS and WoodPecker ultrasonic technology, we provide a cleaning that is:

  • Gentle and comfortable – less sensitivity than traditional scaling.
  • Thorough and precise – even hard-to-reach areas are addressed.
  • Evidence-based – modern techniques backed by research for effective plaque and biofilm removal.
  • Tailored to you – every patient receives a cleaning designed for their unique oral health needs.

This modern approach to teeth cleaning helps keep your smile healthy, prevents gum disease, and ensures a positive dental experience every time.

 

How Often Should You Get Dental Exams and Cleanings?

Most people benefit from professional cleanings and exams every six months. This twice-yearly schedule allows us to stay on top of your oral health, catching and addressing small issues before they escalate.

However, some situations call for more frequent visits:

  • Active gum disease: Every 3-4 months until your gums are healthy
  • High cavity risk: More frequent fluoride treatments and monitoring
  • History of oral cancer: More frequent screenings may be recommended
  • Orthodontic treatment: Additional monitoring during Invisalign or other treatments
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes affect gum health; more frequent visits help

We’ll create a personalized schedule based on your individual needs and risk factors.

 

What If It’s Been a While?

Life gets busy. We get it. If it’s been longer than you’d like to admit since your last dental visit, please don’t let embarrassment keep you away. Our team has seen it all, and we’re here to help—not judge.

Your first visit back might take a bit longer as we assess your current oral health and develop a plan to get you back on track. We’ll walk you through everything and help you understand your options.

The hardest part is making that first appointment. Once you’re here, we’ll make the rest easy.

 

Tips for a Better Dental Visit

Before Your Appointment:

  • Brush and floss as usual—we’re not judging your home care, we promise!
  • Make a list of any questions or concerns you want to discuss
  • Bring your insurance card and any current medications list
  • Let us know if you have dental anxiety—we have sedation options that can help

 

During Your Visit:

  • Speak up if you’re uncomfortable or need a break
  • Ask questions—we love when patients are engaged in their care
  • Let us know about any changes in your health or medications

 

After Your Appointment:

  • Schedule your next visit before you leave (it’s easier than remembering to call later!)
  • Follow any specific care instructions we provide
  • Keep up with your home care routine—it makes a huge difference

Book Your Dental Exam and Cleaning Today

Regular dental exams and cleanings are one of the best investments you can make in your overall health. They’re quick, comfortable, and incredibly effective at preventing bigger problems down the road.

Ready to schedule your appointment? Call us at (780) 500-1001 or book online at your convenience. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Most people find professional cleanings comfortable and even relaxing! You might feel some pressure or slight discomfort if you have sensitive areas or significant tartar buildup, but it shouldn’t be painful. If you do experience sensitivity, let us know immediately—we can adjust our technique, use numbing gel, or take breaks as needed. Many patients who were nervous about cleanings are pleasantly surprised by how gentle and quick the process is.

A typical dental exam and cleaning appointment takes about 60-90 minutes. If it’s your first visit or it’s been a while since your last cleaning, the appointment might run a bit longer as we complete a comprehensive assessment. 

Most dental insurance plans have coverage for preventive care—including routine exams, cleanings, and necessary X-rays— We work with most insurance providers and offer direct billing to make the process seamless. Our team can verify your coverage before your appointment and let you know exactly what to expect.

Absolutely! In fact, dental care is especially important during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation (pregnancy gingivitis), so maintaining regular cleanings helps protect both your oral health and your overall well-being. 

Ready to love your smile again?