Dental Exams & Cleanings

Comprehensive Dental Care, Built Around You

A dental checkup is about more than simply looking for cavities. Regular exams and cleanings give our team an opportunity to assess and monitor your oral health, remove built-up plaque and tartar, and identify potential concerns before they become more difficult to treat.

At Highland Dental Clinic, we take a thorough, personalized approach to every visit. Our goal is to listen and find out our patients’ wants, needs, and expectations so we can work with them to achieve their overall oral health goals. This ensures each patient feels comfortable, informed, and never judged.

Is it time for your next checkup or cleaning? Contact us to schedule your appointment today.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

Your appointment will be tailored to your individual needs, but a typical visit may include:

A visual examination of your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues
Dental X-rays or other radiographic diagnostics when appropriate
A professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar
Assessment for cavities and gum disease
Oral cancer screening
Assessment of your bite and jaw, including potential TMJ concerns
Evaluation of existing dental work, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures
Discussion of your oral health goals so we can create a personalized treatment plan when treatment is recommended

We’ll take the time to explain what we find and answer your questions, so you can understand your oral health and make informed decisions about your care.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

Many people benefit from having their teeth professionally cleaned every six months, but there isn’t one schedule that works for everyone. Your recommended cleaning frequency depends on factors such as your oral hygiene, gum health, dental history, and risk of developing dental problems.

Some patients may benefit from more frequent visits, while others may need less frequent cleanings. We’ll recommend a schedule based on your individual needs and help you stay on track with your preventive care.

Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings Important?

Even with regular brushing and flossing at home, plaque can build up in areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth throughout the day. If it isn’t removed, it can harden into tartar, which can’t be removed with a regular toothbrush.

Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that home care may miss. Regular visits also give us the opportunity to monitor changes in your oral health and address concerns early.

Dental Technology That Supports Your Care

We use dental technology to help us see and assess areas that may not be visible during a visual examination alone. Our technology includes digital X-rays, an intra oral scanner, and other diagnostic tools that help us monitor your oral health and make informed treatment recommendations.

Our goal isn’t to recommend treatment you don’t need. It’s to give you a clear understanding of your oral health and help you make decisions that are right for you.

Protecting Your Gums

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health conditions and can develop when plaque and bacteria build up around the gumline. Early gum disease may cause symptoms such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums, while more advanced disease can affect the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.

Regular exams and cleanings can help us identify signs of gum disease and provide recommendations to support healthier gums. If you have existing gum concerns, we can tailor your hygiene care to your needs.

How Often Do You Need Dental X-Rays?

Dental X-rays allow us to see areas that may not be visible during a visual examination, including between teeth and below the gumline. They can help us identify cavities, bone changes, and other concerns.

Not every patient needs X-rays at every visit. The timing depends on your age, dental history, oral health, symptoms, and individual risk factors. We’ll recommend X-rays when they can provide useful information for your care.

A Dental Team You Can Rely On

At Highland Dental Clinic, we’re proud to provide continuity of care for Crossfield and surrounding communities. We want you to know the people caring for you and feel comfortable asking questions, whether you’ve been a patient for years or are visiting us for the first time.

You’ll always be treated with respect, without judgment, and with the understanding that everyone’s dental needs are different.

Ready for your next visit? Book your dental exam and cleaning today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?

Many patients benefit from visiting every six months, but your recommended schedule depends on your oral health, dental history, and individual needs. We’ll help determine how often you should come in.

Do I need a dental cleaning if I brush and floss every day?

Yes. Brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining your oral health, but plaque can still build up in areas that are difficult to clean at home. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar while allowing us to check for potential concerns.

What if I am nervous or anxious to come to the dentist?

We strive to make everyone feel comfortable during appointments and offer a variety of options, including nitrous and oral sedation. We can discuss the options and help you determine what works best for you.

How long does a dental exam and cleaning take?

Appointment times vary depending on your needs and whether you’re receiving a routine cleaning, comprehensive exam, X-rays, or additional care. We’ll let you know what to expect when booking your appointment.

How often do I need dental X-rays?

Not every patient needs X-rays at every visit. We recommend them based on factors such as your dental history, age, symptoms, and individual risk of dental problems.

What happens if I have a cavity?

If we identify a cavity, we’ll explain what we found and discuss your treatment options. Depending on the size and location of the cavity, treatment may include a filling or another restorative procedure.

Can you check for gum disease during my dental exam?

Yes. We examine your gums for signs of inflammation, infection, and other changes that may indicate gum disease. Regular exams and cleanings can help identify and manage gum concerns early.

What if I haven’t been to the dentist in a long time?

You’re always welcome at Highland Dental Clinic, and there’s no need to feel embarrassed or judged. We’ll assess your current oral health, explain what we find, and work with you to determine the next steps.

Do you provide dental exams and cleanings for children?

Absolutely! We provide dental care for children and tailor visits to their age, needs, and comfort level. Learn more about our children’s dentistry services.