Regular exams are an important part of maintaining your oral health, and they are the best way to catch problems you may not see or feel. At Smiles of Fort Myers, our dentists and hygienists make exams and cleanings a routine part of caring for your smile in Fort Myers, FL.
What Happens During Your Exam
During your regular exam, we will look for the following.
Hidden Problems
We check for problems that you may not see or feel.
Cavities
We look for cavities or any other signs of tooth decay.
Gum Health
We inspect your teeth and gums for gingivitis and signs of periodontal disease.
During your cleaning we will clean, polish, and rinse your teeth to remove any tartar and plaque that have built up on the tooth’s surface. For both a regular exam and cleaning, you can expect an appointment of about 45 minutes. Regular exams are offered by appointment only, so please contact our practice to schedule your next dental exam and teeth cleaning, and be sure to specify that you want both an exam and a cleaning when scheduling.
Why Preventive Visits Matter
Preventive care is a foundation of dentistry. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist regularly, usually about twice yearly, for full cleanings, examinations, and consultations for potential treatment. Professional dental cleanings help remove built-up plaque that is not removable using conventional brushing and flossing, and dentists are often able to identify potential problems that patients are not yet able to see or feel.
Stave Off Decay
Regular visits help you prevent decay.
Prevent Gum Disease
Cleanings help prevent gum disease before it progresses.
Catch Problems Early
Identify the beginnings of oral health problems before they become severe.
Many adults visit the dentist less often as they get older, but it is important to schedule cleanings and exams regardless of how long has passed since your most recent dental appointment.
Overdue for a checkup? Schedule your exam and cleaning today.
What to Expect at Your Cleaning and Exam
Your visit follows a simple sequence.
Examination
A visible examination of the teeth and gums, with X-rays if you have not been in a while.
Conversation
You talk with your dentist about any problems or questions.
Cleaning
A dental hygienist uses special instruments to remove hardened plaque.
Polish and Plan
Your teeth are polished, then your dentist discusses any treatment recommendations.
Your exam also includes an oral cancer screening, and you can learn about the tools we use on our advanced dental technology page. Many patients also add fluoride treatments and sealants for extra protection.
Exam and Cleaning Cost and Financing in Fort Myers
We accept most insurance plans, though coverage varies from plan to plan, and our team can check your benefits before your visit. We also offer 0% APR financing and our in-house Smile Program membership plan for patients without insurance, and you can find more details on our financial information page.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exams and Cleanings in Fort Myers
Schedule Your Exam and Cleaning at Smiles of Fort Myers
If you are ready to get back on track, talk through your options with our dentists. Contact our office to schedule your visit.
We speak English and Spanish. Se habla español.
