Exams & Cleanings in Queen Creek, AZ

Exams & Cleanings in Queen Creek, AZ

As a leading comprehensive care dentist in Queen Creek, AZ, Dr. Alexander knows how essential the basics of dental exams and cleanings are to your health. Not only your oral health but your general health too.

It’s not uncommon for patients to think that the only purpose of exams and cleanings is to keep their teeth healthy. But did you know that when you don’t visit a dentist near you at least once a year for this critical preventive dentistry procedure, that it can affect more than just your smile? That’s right. Untreated gum disease, detected during exams and cleanings near you, can lead to arthritis, stroke, heart disease, and more. Not to mention tooth loss and the embarrassment that’s associated with that!

Preventive Care from Our Dentist Near You

Because Dr. Alexander is committed to helping patients of all ages enjoy their dental health and their general health, one of the over-arching goals of this practice is to help you retain your natural teeth for a lifetime. When you schedule your appointment for an exam and cleaning at Alexander Family Dental, our team is not only looking for cavities and tooth damage, but we look for small problems that can be corrected before they turn into larger ones.

For example, when you visit us for an exam and cleaning in Queen Creek, AZ, Dr. Alexander will detect the signs of early gum disease and treat it through deep cleaning or gels and rinses. Isn’t that preferred over the alternative of gum surgery when the condition goes untreated?

Likewise, Dr. Alexander will perform a visual oral cancer check during every dental exam and cleaning to detect signs of this rapidly increasing form of cancer from having an impact on your life. Even if you don’t smoke, you can be at risk of oral cancer due to factors such as genetics, sun exposure, alcohol use, and exposure to the HPV virus.

Book Your Appointment Now

Rather than taking chances with undiagnosed oral cancer, our patients know that each time they visit Dr. Alexander for an exam or cleaning, screening is included. Equally, every time they visit Alexander Family Dental for an exam and cleaning in Queen Creek, AZ, they’ll know that they are taking proactive measures against other health conditions such as heart disease and stroke that can come from untreated gum disease.

FAQ's

Why are regular dental exams and cleanings important?
Regular exams and cleanings are a must for maintaining your oral health. They help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar collection, while exams catch potential problems like cavities early.
How often should I fix dental exams and cleanings?
It's usually recommended to have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may also suggest more frequent visits depending on your individual oral health needs. Patients with gum disease need maintenance cleanings every 3–4 months.
What happens during a dental exam?
During a dental exam, your dentist will check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They may as well take X-rays to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye.
What should I expect during a teeth cleaning?
During a cleaning, your hygienist will eliminate plaque and tartar from your teeth, clean between your teeth, and polish your smile. It's a quick and painless process that helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. Your hygienist may use an ultrasonic scaler, which is an instrument that uses vibrations and water to remove and flush away the tartar.
Will a dental cleaning hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during a cleaning. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let your hygienist know, and they can take extra care to ensure your comfort.
How do I prepare for a dental exam and cleaning?
There's no special preparation needed. Just brush and floss your teeth as regularly before your appointment. If you have any specific concerns, feel free to discuss them with your dentist during the visit.
Are exams and cleanings covered by insurance?
Maxximum dental insurance plans cover the cost of exams and cleanings as part of your annual maximum benefit with preventive care. It's best to check with your provider to confirm the details of your coverage.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
A routine dental cleaning usually takes about 30–60 minutes. The time can vary depending on how much plaque or tartar is present and whether you need a more thorough cleaning.
Can a cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes! Professional cleanings eradicate the plaque and tartar that can cause bad breath. Regular cleanings can help keep up fresh breath and improve overall oral hygiene.
What happens if I skip my dental exams and cleanings?
Skipping exams and cleanings can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, thus increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and various other dental issues. Regular visits are crucial to preventing serious dental problems. If gum disease is present and left untreated, bacteria from the gum disease can travel through your body and cause complications with other parts of your health, including heart infections.
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