Teeth Cleaning Howell

What happens during your Teeth Cleaning Howell visit

A routine visit usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on whether X-rays or extra preventive care are needed. We keep to the schedule, so you are not left sitting in the lobby.

• Health review — we update your medical history and ask about anything you have noticed, such as bleeding gums or sensitivity.
• Digital X-rays when due — they use up to 80% less radiation than traditional film and show decay between teeth that cannot be seen by eye.
• Intraoral camera photos — close-up images on a screen so you can see exactly what we see.
• Scaling and polishing — plaque and tartar are gently removed along and just under the gumline, then teeth are polished smooth to lift surface stains.
• Fluoride if needed — to strengthen enamel against new cavities.
• Exam and oral cancer screening — the dentist checks each tooth, your gums, bite and the soft tissues of your mouth and throat.
• Home-care tips — we point out the specific areas that need more attention when you brush and floss.

Routine cleaning or deep cleaning?

Not every cleaning is the same. What we recommend depends on the health of your gums, which we measure during the exam.

• Routine cleaning (prophylaxis) — for healthy gums, done every six months to remove plaque, tartar and surface stains.
• Full mouth debridement — when heavy buildup makes it impossible to examine teeth and gums properly. It clears the way so we can complete an accurate exam.
• Scaling and root planing — a deep cleaning for early gum disease that reaches below the gumline and smooths the roots so the gums can heal and reattach.
• Periodontal maintenance — more frequent cleanings for patients with a history of gum disease, to keep it from returning.

What a checkup can reveal beyond your teeth

Your mouth often shows the first signs of conditions elsewhere in the body. During an exam, a dentist may notice changes linked to diabetes, vitamin deficiencies or certain infections and suggest you follow up with your physician.

The oral cancer screening is quick — a look and gentle feel of your tongue, cheeks, gums and throat for unusual patches or lumps. Early findings are far easier to treat, which is one more reason not to skip visits when nothing hurts.

Paying for cleanings, with or without insurance

Preventive visits are typically covered well by PPO plans — often at or near 100%, though every plan is different. We are in-network with 32 PPO plans, and our insurance coordinators verify your benefits before you come in.

No insurance? Our in-house membership plan covers two exams with routine X-rays, two cleanings and an emergency exam for $295 a year for adults (14 and up), plus 10% off fillings and other procedures. The Child Complete plan is $199 a year for kids 13 and under and adds a fluoride treatment. There are no deductibles, no annual maximums and no waiting for approvals.

Comfortable cleanings, even if it has been a while

If it has been years since your last cleaning, you are not alone and you will not be lectured. We start where you are, explain what we find in plain language and plan any catch-up care at a pace that works for you.

Tell us if you feel anxious — comfort aids and sedation options are available. With Sunday hours and time set aside every day for new patients, it is easy to fit a visit around school and work. See what to expect as a new patient, then book online.