Building a Lifetime of Healthy, Beautiful Smiles

At Riverpark Dental of Howell, we believe preventive care is the key to lasting oral health. Regular dental check-ups allow us to catch minor issues early—before they become painful or costly—and help keep your teeth and gums in top condition. These visits are quick, comfortable, and essential for maintaining a confident, healthy smile at every age.

Even if your teeth feel fine, routine exams and professional cleanings help ensure they stay that way. By visiting every six months, you can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other common dental concerns—saving both time and money in the long run.

Why Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings Matter

Seeing your dentist twice a year is one of the best ways to protect your oral health. During these visits, we can identify early signs of cavities, infection, or gum problems before they worsen. Early detection means simpler, more affordable treatments—and a healthier smile.

Professional cleanings are equally important. Even with daily brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas. Our skilled hygienists gently remove these deposits, helping prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath.

What Happens If You Skip Routine Cleanings?

Delaying regular dental visits can lead to several preventable problems, including:

Plaque buildup: Hardened tartar can’t be removed with regular brushing.
Gum inflammation: Tartar irritates the gums, leading to bleeding or early gum disease.
Cavities: Untreated buildup increases the risk of decay and tooth damage.
Bad breath: Bacteria from plaque and tartar can cause persistent odor.
Tooth loss: Advanced gum disease can loosen or destroy supporting bone.
Higher costs: Minor issues can turn into complex, costly procedures later on.

Preventive care truly pays off—keeping your smile bright, your gums healthy, and your dental visits stress-free.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gumline.
Polish your teeth to remove surface stains and give your smile a smooth, clean feel.
Apply fluoride (if needed) to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities.
Check your gums and oral health to spot any early signs of trouble.

We’ll also show you areas that may need extra attention when brushing or flossing at home. Our goal is to make dental care simple, effective, and personalized—so you can maintain a healthy, confident smile with ease.

Are There Different Types of Dental Cleanings?

Yes, dental cleanings can vary depending on your oral health needs. A routine dental cleaning—also called prophylaxis—is recommended for patients with healthy gums. It’s typically done every six months to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains, keeping your teeth and gums strong and healthy.

For patients showing signs of gum disease or heavier buildup, more advanced types of cleanings may be recommended. These include:

Full Mouth Debridement – This is done when there's a large amount of plaque and tartar buildup. It helps clear the mouth so we can get a better look at your teeth and gums before moving forward with any other treatments.
Scaling and Root Planing – A deep cleaning, this is used when early signs of gum disease are present. It cleans below the gum line and smooths the roots of the teeth to help the gums heal and stop the disease from getting worse.
Periodontal Maintenance – This is for patients who have had gum disease in the past. It's done more often than regular cleanings to help keep the condition under control and prevent it from coming back.