Dental Cleanings & Exams in Lakewood, CO
Regular dental cleanings and exams in Lakewood, Colorado, are the foundation of a healthy smile. Dr. Dian Li and the team at Belmar Smiles provide thorough preventive care to keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition.
Dental Cleanings & Exams Explained
A routine visit includes two parts: a professional teeth cleaning and a comprehensive exam. During the cleaning, a hygienist gently removes sticky plaque and hardened tartar from around the gumline and between teeth, then polishes to smooth the enamel and reduce future buildup. Many patients also receive fluoride treatment for added cavity defense and guidance on better brushing and flossing.
The exam evaluates teeth, gums, bite, and existing restorations. When appropriate, dental X-rays help reveal decay between teeth, infections, or bone changes not visible to the eye. Most visits also include gum disease screening and an oral cancer screening, which looks at soft tissues of the mouth for any unusual changes.
Benefits of Professional Dental Cleanings & Exams
- Reduces plaque and tartar to lower the risk of cavities.
- Supports healthy gums and helps prevent gingivitis and periodontitis.
- Finds small issues early, which often means simpler treatment.
- Freshens breath by removing odor-causing buildup.
- Guides better home care with personalized tips and tools.
- Monitors overall oral health with X-rays and oral cancer screening.
How Dental Cleanings & Exams Work
- Health review: The visit begins with a short update on your medical history and any dental changes.
- Gum check: Measurements around teeth help assess gum disease risk.
- Plaque and tartar removal: Hand instruments or ultrasonic scalers clear buildup above and below the gumline.
- Polish and floss: Surfaces are smoothed and flossed to remove remaining debris.
- Fluoride and sealants: Fluoride strengthens enamel, and dental sealants may be recommended for deep grooves.
- X-rays as needed: Images may be taken to evaluate areas not visible during the exam.
- Exam and plan: Our dentist reviews findings and outlines any recommended care.
Routine Cleaning Versus Deep Cleaning
A routine cleaning treats surfaces above the gums. If signs of gum disease are present, a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be advised to remove tartar below the gums and smooth root surfaces. Your provider will explain why one option is best for your situation.
What to Expect
Most appointments take 45 to 60 minutes. You may feel light pressure during tartar removal, especially if gums are inflamed. Mild tenderness or sensitivity afterward is normal and typically resolves quickly. We recommend cleanings every six months for most patients, though some may benefit from more frequent visits based on their gum health and cavity risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients benefit from a cleaning every six months. Patients with gum disease, high cavity risk, or certain health conditions may need more frequent visits. Your dentist will recommend a schedule that fits your needs.
A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gumline. A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, treats buildup below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to help gums heal. It is recommended when signs of gum disease are present.
Most patients experience only light pressure during a cleaning. If your gums are inflamed or sensitive, you may feel mild tenderness. Numbing options are available for patients who need extra comfort.
X-rays reveal problems that cannot be seen during a visual exam, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, infections, and impacted teeth. They are an important part of a thorough dental evaluation.
The dentist checks your teeth, gums, bite, and existing restorations. An oral cancer screening and gum disease evaluation are typically included. Findings are discussed, and a care plan is outlined if treatment is needed.
Yes. Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that cause gum inflammation. Combined with good home care, professional cleanings are one of the most effective ways to prevent gingivitis and periodontitis.
Schedule Your Cleaning Today
Contact Belmar Smiles at 303-935-3574 to book your next dental cleaning and exam.