Dental Checkups and Teeth Cleanings – Maitland, FL
The Key to Maintaining a Healthy Smile
All too often, patients think that they can skip their biannual dental visits, especially if they take good care of their smiles at home. That’s not the case! Routine checkups and cleanings help us catch existing oral health concerns in the early stages while also preventing others from developing. So, if it has been more than six months since your last visit, reach out to a friendly member of our team so we can get an appointment on the calendar for you.
Why Choose West Maitland Dentistry for Dental Checkups and Teeth Cleanings?
- Happy to Treat the Entire Family
- Dental Insurance Friendly Practice
- Open Five Days a Week
Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?
As we mentioned above, many patients assume that biannual dental visits are only necessary for patients who don’t take good care of their smiles. The truth is that oral cancer, tooth decay, and other serious health conditions can develop and progress under the radar. So, it’s crucial that patients schedule an appointment at our office every six months, even if they brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash consistently. That way, we can catch (and treat!) any oral health problems that have developed, perform an oral cancer screening, and remove plaque and tartar that have accumulated.
What to Expect During a Dental Checkup
Your dental checkup will be with our kind, experienced, and talented dentist in Maitland, Dr. Avni Dhaliwal. If this is your first visit, then she will get to know you a bit better and ask you a few questions about your oral health. Then, she will take a look at your latest X-rays, perform an oral cancer screening, and examine your teeth, gums, and any existing dental work you have. Then, she will share her findings and, if necessary, discuss how to get your oral health back on track.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
Your dental cleaning will be performed by one of our incredible dental hygienists. They will start by carefully removing plaque and tartar that has built up since your last visit. Along the way, they will share any feedback they have, like spending a bit more time brushing your molars. Then, when they are done, they will floss and polish your teeth before scheduling your next appointment.
Checkups & Cleanings FAQs
How often do I need to get dental X-rays?
For most healthy adults, it’s generally recommended to get bitewing X-rays once a year. New patients typically receive their full set at their first visit, so Dr. Dhaliwal can get a good picture of their oral health.
From there, frequency really depends on your individual risk level. Patients with a history of decay or gum disease may need X?rays more often to monitor changes and catch problems early. At West Maitland Dentistry, we use digital X?rays, which provide clearer images in seconds and use significantly less radiation than traditional film. This helps us diagnose issues accurately while keeping your exposure as low as possible.
Is it okay to only visit the dentist once a year?
We recommend coming in to see our team every six months for preventive dentistry. Conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer can develop between visits, showing few or no symptoms until they've gotten worse.
A once-per-year schedule leaves a wide, unchecked window for problems to grow undetected. With consistent checkups at least twice annually, Dr. Dhaliwal has the chance to catch issues early, when treatment is simpler and less costly. Not only does this save you money, but it also keeps your smile looking, feeling, and functioning its best.
What should I do if I need a dental cleaning but I'm too afraid to go to the dentist?
Dental anxiety is incredibly common, so you're not alone. In fact, at least 1 in 4 adults has some mild to moderate anxiety, while 1 in 10 has a severe phobia. The best first step is to call our Maitland office and simply tell us how you're feeling. Communication is the first line of defense against stress.
Once we know your situation, our team can accommodate your needs. We’re experienced at working with anxious patients and will take extra care to move at a pace that feels comfortable for you. We can also walk you through your exam so there are no surprises. Sometimes, just knowing what's coming is enough to take the edge off.
What should I do if I have sensitive teeth and find dental cleanings uncomfortable?
Sensitive teeth are another issue that our team sees all the time during cleanings, but there’s no need for stress. There are several ways to make your experience more manageable. First, let your hygienist know before your appointment. This lets them know what to expect so they can adjust their technique, use gentler instruments, or apply a desensitizing treatment to help.
In some cases, sensitivity is a sign of an underlying issue, like enamel erosion or gum recession. If brushing with desensitizing toothpaste doesn’t seem to help, you could be suffering from a cavity or other issue we’ll spot during your checkup. No matter what, our team will always work with you to make your visit as comfortable as possible.
