4905 Green Road, #111, Raleigh, NC 27616
Keep Your Smile Bright With Routine Dental Check-Ups
At Gentle Smiles of Raleigh, we believe prevention is the best approach to lifelong oral health. Routine dental check-ups are the cornerstone of a healthy smile — helping us catch small issues early, keep your teeth clean, and ensure your gums stay strong. These visits are quick, comfortable, and essential for patients of all ages.
Even if your teeth feel fine, regular dental exams and cleanings help you maintain that healthy feeling. With consistent visits, you can prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious problems before they start.
Why Regular Dental Visits Matter
Scheduling check-ups every six months allows your dentist to detect early signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns before they worsen. Treating these issues early saves you time, money, and unnecessary discomfort.
Professional cleanings are equally important. Even with good brushing and flossing habits, plaque and tartar can build up over time. Our hygienists use special tools to remove these deposits, leaving your teeth smooth, clean, and healthy.
Types of Dental Cleanings
There are three main types of dental cleanings, each designed to meet different oral health needs:
Full Mouth Debridement
This standard cleaning is recommended every six months for patients with healthy gums. It removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains to keep your teeth and gums in great shape.
Scaling and Root Planing
This type of cleaning is recommended for patients showing early signs of gum disease. It removes buildup below the gum line and smooths tooth roots to help the gums heal and prevent further infection.
Periodontal Maintenance
For patients who have previously had gum disease treatment, this cleaning is performed more frequently to keep gums healthy and prevent the condition from returning.
What Happens if You Skip Dental Cleanings
Missing regular cleanings can lead to several problems, such as:
- Plaque and tartar buildup: Hardened deposits that can’t be removed by brushing alone.
- Gum inflammation: Early signs of gum disease, such as redness, swelling, or bleeding.
- Tooth decay: Cavities can develop unnoticed until pain or damage occurs.
- Bad breath: Bacteria in plaque and tartar contribute to persistent odor.
- Tooth loss: Untreated gum disease may eventually lead to loose or missing teeth.
- Higher costs: Delayed care often means more complex, expensive treatments later.
What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning
During your cleaning, our hygienist will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup before polishing your teeth for a smooth, refreshed finish. We may also apply fluoride to strengthen enamel and prevent cavities.
You’ll receive personalized tips on how to improve brushing and flossing at home, and we’ll check for early signs of gum problems or other concerns. The entire process is comfortable and typically completed in less than an hour.
What Happens During a Dental Exam
A dental exam goes beyond just checking your teeth — it’s a full assessment of your oral health. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of decay, infection, or wear. Digital X-rays may be taken to evaluate areas not visible during the visual exam.
We’ll also check your bite, review any restorations like crowns or fillings, and look for early signs of issues such as TMJ or oral cancer. If anything requires attention, we’ll clearly explain your options and guide you through the next steps.
