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Dental Hygiene Exams
Westerville Dental Associates encourages you to schedule two times a year cleaning appointments to prevent serious problems, such as gum disease and decay in order to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
During these recare appointments, our team will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of periodontal disease or decay and will remove build-up, including tartar and plaque, that often cannot be removed by brushing alone.
About our Dental Exams
- We take x-rays annually to examine tooth and root positions and detect any possible decay or bone loss.
- Face, neck, mouth and other areas are checked for signs of oral cancer.
- Gums and the bone around your teeth are examined for signs of periodontal disease.
- Any previous restorations, including crowns, implants or fillings, are also examined for stability and possible infection.
- The surfaces of your teeth are fully checked for decay and thoroughly cleaned by a registered hygienist.
- If necessary, surface areas are further polished to remove stains and plaque.
- We’ll provide you with complete instructions on daily care for your teeth and gums, including proper oral hygiene practices.
Digital X-rays
Westerville Dental Associates uses digital dental x-rays (or radiographs) in our routine care programs as a critical diagnostic tool to check for potentially harmful conditions that are not always visible during oral examinations.
In general, we recommend a full mouth series of dental x-rays for all new patients. These digital x-rays do not deteriorate over time and are used as a baseline reference for your future visits. Digital bite-wing x-rays – showing the top and bottom teeth biting together – are taken every other year to help uncover any cavities or new problems that might have developed.
About Digital X-rays
- Digital dental x-rays produce very low levels of radiation - much lower than "traditional dental x-rays" - and are considered extremely safe.
- Digital x-rays reduce the time of exposure during each x-ray.
- Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage reduces your risk of developing dental cavities or other problems and saves you time and money down in the future.
Dental Hygiene FAQs
At Westerville Dental Associates, dental hygiene exams and cleanings are a cornerstone of preventive care designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy year after year. During these appointments, our skilled hygienists thoroughly clean your teeth, check for early signs of gum disease and decay, and help you maintain your best smile. We value your comfort and confidence, and we're here to answer your most common questions about dental hygiene visits.
How long does a dental cleaning & exam appointment take?
Most dental hygiene appointments take about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your oral health needs and whether x-rays are required. First-time visits or deeper cleanings may take longer, so we can give you the most thorough care possible.
Are there any benefits to getting dental hygiene exams?
Yes! Regular hygiene exams help remove tartar and plaque that brushing at home can't remove and allow us to catch issues like gum disease, cavities, or oral cancer early—before they become bigger problems.
Why am I asked to update my medical history at every dental hygiene appointment?
Your overall health affects your dental health. Updating your medical history ensures we know about new medications, conditions, or allergies that could impact your treatment or oral health care plan.
Do I have to complete a fluoride treatment?
Fluoride treatments are optional but recommended because they strengthen tooth enamel and help prevent cavities, especially for patients at higher risk. We'll discuss whether it's right for you.
What can I do if I am nervous about the appointment?
We understand that dental visits can feel stressful. Let us know how you're feeling—we offer a friendly environment and will walk you through each step to help you feel at ease. Your comfort matters to us.
Will a dental hygiene appointment help my bad breath?
Yes—thorough cleaning removes the bacteria and buildup that often contribute to persistent bad breath. We'll also give you tips for freshening your breath between visits.
Do you take X-rays at every office visit?
We use digital X-rays as a diagnostic tool to catch issues not visible during an exam. Typically, x-rays are taken once a year—unless there's a specific concern that requires more frequent imaging.
How often should I schedule dental hygiene exams?
Most patients benefit from twice-yearly hygiene exams and cleanings. This schedule supports healthy teeth and gums and helps us stay ahead of common oral health issues.
Ready for Your Next Cleaning?
Whether it's been six months or longer, we're here to make your dental hygiene visit comfortable and effective. Call Westerville Dental Associates today to schedule your next cleaning and keep your smile healthy for years to come!
