Dental cleaning

FAQs About Teeth Cleaning and Dental Exams

Dental exams and cleanings can make people nervous or scared, especially if they’re not sure what to expect from the appointment. At Smith Family Dentistry, we want our clients to feel as comfortable as possible before and during their dental appointments.

Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions about dental cleanings in Wilmington, NC.

Answers to the Top 8 FAQs About Dental Exams

1. How often should I get my teeth cleaned?

It’s recommended that you get a professional tooth cleaning two times a year, minimum. 

2. Are regular dental exams really all that important?

Yes. Dental exams are an important way to identify serious dental problems that need to be addressed. They can also provide guidance and treatments for common dental issues, such as jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and more.

Learn more about the importance of regular dental exams here.

3. Does insurance cover teeth cleanings?

You should confirm with your insurance company that they cover dental. You may have a separate dental plan instead. If you do have dental insurance, your teeth cleanings will be covered. Most insurance plans cover two teeth cleanings a year.

4. What are the common signs I need a dental exam?

The most common signs that you should see a dentist in Wilmington include:

  • A toothache
  • Tooth sensitivity
  • Bleeding gums
  • Bad breath

5. How long do teeth cleanings take?

It can vary, but usually, they take between 45 minutes and an hour and a half. You should plan for the full hour and a half just to be on the safe side.

6. What can I expect from a tooth cleaning?

During a tooth cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will scrape plaque off your teeth, clean the teeth, and polish them. They may also provide fluoride treatment.

7. What do I need to bring for my first dental exam?

You should bring the following documents to your first appointment at a dentist office:

  • Dental insurance card, if applicable
  • Personal identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or state ID
  • Information regarding any pertinent medical information 

The dentist will likely have you fill out the following patient registration forms before or at your appointment:

  • Intake form
  • Health history form
  • HIPAA consent form

8. How should I choose a dentist for my teeth cleanings?

You’ll want to choose a local dentist who is experienced, professional, and welcoming. If you have a family, you will want to pick a dental office that specializes in family dentistry, too.

The most important factor? Reputation. You’ll want a dentist whose clients rave about them. Check out their reviews beforehand. Smith Family Dentistry, for instance, has a 5-star rating on Google.

See Our Dentist for Your Wilmington Dental Cleanings

Looking for a dentist who’s experienced and welcoming? Choose Smith Family Dentistry for your teeth cleaning in Wilmington, NC. Contact us if you have any additional questions, and schedule your appointment.