COMPREHENSIVE DENTAL HYGIENE
Your Port Hadlock Dentist Office Near You!
COMPREHENSIVE HYGIENE
Improve your daily brushing and flossing - Your Path to a Healthier Smile
While brushing and flossing at home remove much of the plaque and bacteria from your teeth, it is nearly impossible to eliminate all of it on your own. That’s why partnering with a dental hygienist is so important.
Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings can prevent tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. Depending on the condition of your teeth and gums, our dentist may recommend more frequent visits. Consistent dental care helps you maintain optimal oral health and catch potential problems early.
What to expect at your check-up appointment:
- Visual evaluation of teeth, face, jaw and neck
- Digital images to check for cavities and other possible problems
- Gum disease evaluation
- Professional teeth cleaning and fluoride treatment
- Screening for oral cancer
How Can We Help?
Hadlock Dentist offers a full range of services to support your comprehensive hygiene and overall health. Choose from the following options:
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Caring for your Smile
Here is what is included in your typical comprehensive hygiene appointment.
Visual & Gum Disease Evaluation
Your Hadlock dentist will check for cracked, broken, or decayed teeth. Additionally, we look for any abnormal areas on your cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof of your mouth. Because gum disease affects nearly 50% of adults in the U.S. (according to the CDC), we perform a comprehensive assessment during your exam.
When we detect periodontal disease early, we can control and even reverse it. Since gum disease often shows minimal symptoms until it advances, early evaluation is crucial. Our team will assist you in choosing the best treatment options for your needs.
Digital Imaging
To identify problem areas, your dentist may recommend digital x-rays and photographs. Depending on your situation, a panoramic x-ray provides a comprehensive view of your mouth, jaw joints, and sinuses. In some cases, digital 3D imaging helps us determine the exact positioning of your teeth.
We also use special digital cameras and intraoral cameras to capture close-up and live images. This technology allows us to monitor any areas of concern and explain findings clearly during your visit.
Fluoride Treatment: Cavity Prevention Made Simple
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends fluoride treatments based on your risk for cavities. Our team evaluates your risk as low, moderate, or high using ADA guidelines.
Low risk: Fluoride treatment twice a year
Moderate risk: Fluoride twice a year plus a take-home fluoride product
High risk: Fluoride treatment more than twice a year, a take-home product, and an antimicrobial rinse
With these personalized recommendations, we help you reduce your risk of cavities and maintain a healthy smile.
Professional Teeth Cleaning: A Fresh Start Every Visit
Our skilled hygienists perform thorough teeth cleanings at every appointment. We remove plaque and tartar, then polish your teeth to eliminate stains and smooth the tooth surface. In addition to traditional techniques, we use ultrasonic devices to target hard-to-reach areas. These advanced tools deliver vibrations that effectively break up and remove stubborn deposits.
Oral Cancer Screening
Oral cancer cases are increasing, but early detection leads to better outcomes. Your dentist will examine all the tissues in your mouth—including your tongue, lips, and cheeks—for any abnormalities. We also check for unusual lumps or bumps and recommend follow-up if needed.
For added peace of mind, we offer salivary screenings to detect active HPV infections. To reduce your risk of oral cancer, we recommend regular screenings and, if necessary, lifestyle changes.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
The Academy of General Dentistry recommends visiting the dentist for a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. However, your Hadlock dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have certain health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or pregnancy. Regular cleanings help keep both your mouth and your body healthy.
Will my insurance cover my check-up appointment?
Most insurance plans cover the procedures performed during a check-up and cleaning. Our experienced insurance coordinators will help you navigate your benefits and provide an estimate of any remaining costs after insurance payments.
