Professional prevention shaped around your current oral health.

An exam and a cleaning serve different—but connected—purposes.

During an examination, the dentist reviews the teeth, gums, existing restorations, bite, and visible oral tissues. The health history and any symptoms guide the evaluation, and X-rays are selected only when the expected diagnostic information is useful.

A professional cleaning removes plaque, hardened tartar, and selected surface stains that home brushing cannot fully address. The hygienist can also identify difficult-to-clean areas and recommend techniques or tools that fit your mouth and dental work.

What may be reviewed during an exam

• New decay, cracks, wear, or changes around fillings and crowns
• Gum inflammation, pocket measurements, and bone support when indicated
• The lips, cheeks, tongue, palate, throat, jaw, and neck for unusual findings
• Symptoms such as sensitivity, pain, dry mouth, or changes in the bite

How often should you return?

There is no single schedule that fits every patient. The recommended interval may change with cavity risk, gum health, pregnancy, tobacco use, dry mouth, medical conditions, past treatment, and how quickly buildup returns.

Ask what interval is being recommended for you and what the team plans to monitor at the next visit.