What a Checkup Is
A routine cleaning and checkup combines a professional cleaning with a full exam of your teeth, gums, and bite.
When You Need One
I recommend a checkup about every six months for most patients, though some situations — like managing gum disease or frequent cavities — call for more frequent visits.
My Conservative Approach
Regular checkups are themselves a conservative strategy — catching small issues like early decay or gum inflammation while they're simple and inexpensive to treat, rather than waiting for a problem to grow.
What to Expect
A hygienist will clean your teeth thoroughly, removing plaque and tartar buildup that brushing alone can't reach, followed by a dentist's exam and periodic X-rays to check for issues below the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I really come in?
Every six months works well for most people, though I may suggest more frequent visits if you're managing gum disease or frequent cavities.
Are X-rays necessary every visit?
Not every visit — I typically space them out based on your individual risk and history, following guidelines to minimize unnecessary exposure.
What if I haven't been to a dentist in years?
That's alright — I'll start with a thorough exam to understand where things stand and build a plan from there, without judgment.
Ready to Schedule?
Book a visit or call the office — I'm happy to talk through whether this is the right fit for you.