Dental Checkups & Cleanings - Schenectady, NY • Capital District
Enjoy a refreshed, sparkling smile
It is almost always simpler to prevent a problem from occurring than it is to correct an existing one. To that end, we recommend that patients of all ages visit the dentist for twice-annual checkups and cleanings. With frequent hygiene, careful monitoring, and thorough examinations, the dentist and our highly-trained staff help you steer clear of preventable oral issues for a healthy, long-lasting smile.
When you come in for your routine appointment at Capital Smiles, you won’t spend any extra time waiting -- but sitting in our warm, spacious waiting room is almost as comfortable as being in your own living room. Relax with a complimentary refreshment if you like, and before you know it you’ll be settling into the dental chair for your appointment.
“How powerful and uplifting... From reception forward, I was treated with care and compassion. I felt like I was finally being heard by the way I was listened and talked to. I was not put down, rushed or embarrassed. My heart felt your sincerity."
Christine T.
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What Happens During a Checkup and Cleaning?
Your routine visit will begin with a thorough cleaning from one of our highly-trained dental hygienists. Good dental hygiene is a fight against plaque and tartar, the two substances that are constantly forming on the teeth. With special tools, we will remove the clear, sticky plaque as well as the yellow tartar that discolors your teeth. We will also take low radiation digital X-rays when necessary so the dentist can get an in-depth look at what is going on beneath the visible surface of your mouth.
Comprehensive Exam, Tooth-by-Tooth Appraisal
The second half of your preventive appointment at Capital Smiles is when your dentist checks your teeth, gums, and all oral structures for the presence of any current or potential issues requiring restorative care.
Your dentist will perform a tooth-by-tooth appraisal and overall exam, looking for…
- Tooth decay
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Faulty dental work (fillings, crowns, bridges, etc.)
- Possible indications of oral cancer in an oral cancer screening
If any issues are detected during the examination portion of your appointment, your dentist will thoroughly discuss with you the situation and how it relates to your oral health in plain, easy-to-understand language. Then we will put together a treatment plan for restorative dental care to bring your smile back to good, long-lasting health.
Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
For additional help in the prevention of cavities, we may recommend dental sealants and/or a fluoride treatment at the end of your appointment. Dental sealants are thin coverings that are painted onto the surface of the molars to shield them from the acids and bacteria that cause decay. A quick fluoride treatment strengthens the enamel from the same cavity-causing agents for lasting protection against decay. Both treatments are especially helpful for children’s smiles, but patients of all ages can benefit from additional cavity prevention.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
When was the last time you visited Capital Smiles for a checkup and cleaning? Don’t let your preventive care fall by the wayside -- your smile is too important. Contact us to schedule an appointment for superior preventive care with your Capital District dentist today!
Dental Checkups & Cleaning FAQs
How often should I get dental X-rays?
Many dentists require new dental X-rays every six months; fortunately, these X-rays only take a few minutes to capture. There are three types that can be taken at different times:
- Bitewings: These are taken annually to detect cavities.
- Periapical: These are used for pre-treatment planning and identifying root issues. They are taken as needed.
- Panoramic: These are taken every 3 to 5 years to detect developmental issues, such as orthodontic concerns, wisdom tooth eruption, etc.
Your dentist will discuss which X-rays you need during your dental checkup. If you have any concerns, such as jaw or tooth pain, you may require additional scans.
Why do dentists recommend fluoride treatment after dental cleanings?
Many dentists recommend fluoride treatment after a dental cleaning because it helps lower the risk of cavities, strengthen tooth enamel, and reduce sensitivity. This is often necessary for those patients who are prone to developing cavities. Fluoride applications take only seconds and often involve a dental hygienist brushing the fluoridated gel over the teeth.
You will not be able to eat for one hour after receiving fluoride treatment, as this allows the solution to penetrate the enamel.
What factors can lengthen my regular appointment?
You can expect your dental checkup and cleaning appointment to take about 1 to 1.5 hours. Each dentist is different, and the time allotment can vary depending on whether you are a new patient. Some of the most common factors that can lengthen your appointment include whether your dentist sees any oral health concerns during their examination, whether you require dental X-rays, whether you are interested in certain treatments, and whether you need to discuss future dental work.
What does my dentist screen for at routine checkups?
During your dental checkups, your dentist will review your X-rays for any signs of decay that exists between your teeth, as well as infection and dental damage. They’ll also perform an oral cancer screening, ensure your gums are healthy, and examine existing restorations (i.e., dental crowns, veneers, bridges) to ensure they do not require replacement. You can expect your dentist to address any concerns you have and answer any questions.
Your dental checkups are designed to serve as early detection points, allowing our team to spot signs of common dental issues before they advance. This ensures that you avoid more extensive restorative care in the future.