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Preventive care

Dental cleanings and checkups in Saratoga Springs

Your toothbrush does a lot, but it cannot reach everything. A regular cleaning and checkup clears away the hard buildup and lets us spot small changes while they are still small.

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What happens at a dental cleaning and checkup?

A hygienist removes plaque and tartar, polishes your teeth and looks closely at your gums. Your dentist then checks your teeth, bite, jaw and the soft tissue in your mouth. If anything needs care, you get a clear plan and time to ask questions.

  • A visit every six months suits many patients
  • Gum trouble may mean coming back sooner, every 3 or 4 months
  • Kids, teens and adults are all welcome

Who should come in for regular cleanings

Just about everyone with natural teeth, and many people with dentures, gets something out of a routine visit. Tartar is plaque that has hardened onto your teeth. Once it sets, brushing and flossing will not lift it off. Only a hygienist with the right tools can.

You may need to come in more often than twice a year if you:

  • Notice your gums bleed when you brush or floss
  • Have been treated for gum disease in the past
  • Tend to get cavities even when you brush well
  • Smoke, vape or have diabetes
  • Wear braces or have a lot of crowns and fillings

Your dentist looks at your gums, your x-rays and your history, then suggests a schedule that fits you. For some people that is every six months. For others it is every three to four months for a while.

What to expect at your visit

  1. Catching up. First we go over anything new: health updates, medicine changes and any tooth that has been acting up.
  2. A close look. Your hygienist checks your gums, measures the small spaces between gums and teeth and screens your head, neck and mouth for anything unusual. X-rays are taken when they are due. Learn more on our dental imaging page.
  3. Cleaning. Plaque and tartar come off above and just below the gum line. Then your teeth are polished smooth.
  4. Fluoride, if it helps. If you are prone to cavities, your hygienist may suggest a fluoride treatment.
  5. Your dentist's exam. Your dentist reviews what the hygienist found, checks your teeth and bite and answers your questions.
  6. Tips for home. You leave with a few simple ideas tailored to you, like a better flossing method or a softer brush.

When a regular cleaning is not enough

If your gums are red, puffy or bleed easily, plaque may have moved under the gum line. In that case a longer cleaning that works deeper below the gums may be needed. Your dentist will explain why before anything is done.

Keeping your teeth clean between visits

  • Brush for two minutes after breakfast and again at bedtime, using toothpaste with fluoride.
  • Each day, get between your teeth with floss, little picks or a water flosser.
  • Sip water through the day, especially after sugary or sour drinks.
  • Swap your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles splay.
  • Book your next cleaning before you leave so it stays on your calendar.

Cost and insurance

Your cost depends on the care you need and your dental plan. After your exam, we give you an estimate and go over what your insurance is likely to cover before any treatment starts. We work with most major dental plans and accept CareCredit.

See insurance and payment options

FAQ

Questions about dental cleanings and checkups

How long does a cleaning and checkup take?
Plan on about 45 minutes to an hour. A first visit, or one that includes a full set of x-rays, may run a little longer.
Does a teeth cleaning hurt?
You will likely notice light scraping and a bit of pressure. Sore gums or touchy teeth? Just say so. Your hygienist can take breaks and change the pace.
My gums bled at my last cleaning. Should I worry?
Bleeding often points to irritated gums caused by plaque. It usually gets better with steady brushing, daily flossing and regular cleanings. Your hygienist will point out any spots that need extra attention.
Will my insurance pay for cleanings?
Many dental plans help pay for two cleanings and exams each year. We work with 30+ plans and will check your benefits for you. Visit our insurance and payment page for details.
Can I bring my kids to the same appointment time?
We see kids, teens and adults. Call us and we will try to line up visits for your family close together.

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Questions?

Call to book your visit

Our Saratoga Springs team will answer your questions and find a time that works for you.

Call (385) 396-5839Get directions