Dental Cleanings & Exams
keeping North York & Toronto smiling
Dental Cleanings
Professional dental cleaning should be performed on a patient specific schedule generally every 3, 4 or 6 months by your dentist, periodontist (gum specialist) or registered dental hygienist. These appointments involves the following:
- Dental Examination
- Necessary X-rays
- Removal of Plaque: Plaque is a bacterial film that forms on the teeth and overtime invades below the gum line. Plaque bacteria cause tooth decay, gum inflammation (gingivitis) and bone infection (periodontitis).
- Removal of Calculus: Calculus (calcified bacterial plaque) forms above and below the gum line when plaque is left undisturbed over an extended period of time. Calculus attached to the root represents a chronic source of infection and must be removed for the periodontal-gum disease-infection to be controlled.
- Polish-Prophylaxis: Polishing removes plaque and stain on your teeth to create that smooth feeling
- Oral Hygiene Instruction: We are committed to providing you with the skills to maintain your oral health. Following your dental cleaning is a great time to review oral hygiene and refresh your techniques.
Need a Cleaning or Dental Exam?
Dental Examinations
A recall examination is a dental examination performed at each dental cleaning visit. Regular check-up appointments permits your dentist to properly evaluate your oral health and is the key to prevention and early detection of dental disease. I am committed to limited x-ray exposure. X-rays will only be prescribed as required to assist in evaluating your oral health:
- Gums-Gingiva: Your gums and supporting jaw bone will be evaluated and measured for signs of periodontal disease
- Teeth: All tooth surfaces will be inspected for signs of decay as well as evaluation of the status of your restorations (fillings, crowns, etc)
- Oral-Cancer Screening: An oral-cancer screening represents an integral part of your dental examination. An unwavering protocol involves my performing both an intra-oral and extra-oral examination for any signs of abnormalities and disease.
- X-rays: X-rays reveal dental abnormalities otherwise hidden. I carefully inspect for signs of decay, jaw bone level, stability calculus, pathology, etc.
Should anything unusual be discovered during the recall examination I will thoroughly share all findings with you and thereafter provide you will options on how to best to proceed. Dependent upon your presenting issues, we would be glad to arrange a separate appointment to ensure you are fully informed.
Loved by Many
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients do best every 6 months, though Dr. Novack may recommend a different schedule based on your gum health and cavity risk.
Your visit includes a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, a full exam of your teeth and gums, x-rays as needed, and an oral cancer screening.
Most patients find cleanings comfortable. Some mild sensitivity, especially if it has been a while since your last visit, is normal and eases quickly.
Most dental plans cover regular cleanings and exams. Call our office and we will help confirm your coverage before your visit.
Yes, Sari Novack Dentistry welcomes new patients of all ages in North York. Contact us to get started.
That is okay. We see patients returning after a long gap regularly and keep the visit calm and judgment-free. Dr. Novack starts with a gentle assessment before recommending next steps.
