Cleanings
Your regularly scheduled check-up is often referred to as a "cleaning", but there is much more to it than that.

One way to prevent oral disease is to remove harmful plaque and tartar from both above and below the gum line.  The doctor will examine your gums to look for any signs of gum disease, necessary x-rays will be taken, and an oral cancer screening will be performed.  The areas of the mouth that will be inspected during your oral cancer screening are the floor of the mouth, the front and sides of the tongue, and the soft palate.

We also recommend to all of our patients the application of fluoride which helps to prevent tooth decay by making the teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque, bacteria, and sugars in the mouth.  It can also stop the progression of early tooth decay.

For more information, please visit:

Web MD:
- Benefits of Fluoride
- Proper Teeth and Gum Care

The American Dental Association:
- Oral Cancer
- More about Plaque