Dental Cleaning Specialist

What is a dental cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a preventive measure that assesses the health and appearance of your teeth, gums, tongue, and smile.

Contrary to popular belief, no two dental cleanings are exactly alike. Dr. Casey treats each visitor as a unique, special guest and tailors the appointment to your individual needs. 

Aside from checking in on your oral well-being, a dental cleaning presents an opportunity to ask questions, discuss unusual symptoms, and learn about good nutrition and oral hygiene.

What does a dental cleaning involve?

Dental cleaning involves a series of steps that address your individual needs. Some of these steps might include:

Step one - Oral exam

At the beginning of your appointment, Dr. Casey uses a circular mirror to observe your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks. If she notices anything abnormal, like a cavity or oral abscess, she might order additional testing. 

Step two - Digital X-rays

Digital X-rays use electronic sensors and small, safe amounts of radiation to capture detailed images of your alveolar bone, tooth roots, and jaw. They allow Dr. Casey to detect potentially serious oral health problems invisible to the naked eye. 

Step three - Teeth cleaning

Following your X-rays, Dr. Casey removes plaque and tartar from beneath your gum line and between your teeth with a tool called a scaler. Afterward, she polishes your teeth with gritty toothpaste and flosses them. 

Step four - Fluoride treatment

If you have a history of tooth decay, Dr. Casey might prescribe fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral found in most foods and water sources. When applied to your teeth, it strengthens the enamel, lowering the risk of cavities. 

Step five - Oral cancer screening

An oral cancer screening uses an advanced intraoral scanner to assess your mouth for signs of precancerous or cancerous growths. If the scanner detects anything unusual, Dr. Casey may conduct further testing by taking a soft-tissue biopsy.

Step six - Question and answer session

At the end of your cleaning, Dr. Casey evaluates any existing dental work (like crowns or dental implants) to detect potential problems early on. Then, she sets aside time to discuss any questions or concerns you have.

How often should I schedule a dental cleaning?

If you want to keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition for years to come, it’s important to schedule a dental cleaning at least two times a year. Many potentially serious issues, including gum disease and bone loss, present few obvious symptoms. Regular checkups with Dr. Casey can alert you early on when these conditions respond best to treatment.

If it’s time for your next dental cleaning, make an appointment at the practice of Diane E. Casey, DDS, by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.