Otteson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry logo in brown
Request An Appointment

(480) 899-6229

Standard Cleanings & Exams in Chandler, AZ

Protect Your Mouth From Decay

The purpose of dental appointments is to catch oral problems before they occur, treat current issues, and protect you from the effects of tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when unhealthy bacteria penetrate and damage the tooth’s structure which can result in permanent damage to your teeth. Leaving tooth decay untreated can lead to the need for dental fillings and root canals as well as put you at a higher risk for tooth loss and periodontal disease. 

Keeping tooth decay at bay takes a combination of a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine and bi-annual visits with Dr. Otteson. With standard cleanings and exams as part of our preventive dental care, we can help you keep tooth decay at bay all year long.

woman smiling with toothbrush and mouthwash in each hand
man flossing his teeth

How Does Tooth Decay Begin?

Your mouth has its own microbiome full of healthy bacteria that break down food and deliver nutrients to your body. When food is left sitting or there’s an influx of sugar, it creates the perfect environment for unhealthy bacteria to develop. This bacteria will form on the surface of your teeth as a sticky, film-like substance called plaque. 

If left untreated, plaque can harden into a thick substance called tartar(calculus) which can only be removed with special dental tools. The bacteria in plaque and tartar will eat through the protective layer of your teeth (enamel) and the tooth will form cavities which are hollow spaces in the teeth. From there, the decay is free to infect the inner parts of your teeth and gums.

Comprehensive Dental Exam

At your first dental visit, Dr. Otteson will perform a comprehensive dental examination. During regular check-up exams, the following services are included:

  • X-ray images: Help determine tooth and root positions, as well detection of any decay, tumors, cysts, or bone loss.
  • Oral cancer screening: Checking the face, nose, throat, neck, tissues, etc. for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum disease evaluation: Checking for any signs of periodontal disease around the bone or gums.
  • Examination for tooth decay: Using specialized dental instruments, all tooth surfaces will be checked for decay.
  • Examination of existing restorations: Checking up on existing crowns, fillings, or other restorations. 
woman in a dental chair smiling while the dentist holds cleaning tools near her
a dentist cleaning a woman's mouth

Professional Dental Cleaning

Along with professional dental exams, routine cleaning appointments will also include:

  • Removal of tartar(calculus): Tartar is hardened plaque that’s been left on the tooth for some time and is now attached to the tooth surface. Tartar forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with specialized dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost clear film that forms on the teeth. It’s essentially a mixture of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins that inflame the gums, which in turn can create periodontal disease.
  • Teeth polishing: Stains and plaque is removed that were missed during brushing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Will a dental exam be painful?
How often should I get a dental cleaning?

We recommend visiting us at least once every six months but if you’re at a higher risk for issues like periodontal disease, we may recommend more frequent visits. If we notice you’re at a higher risk for any dental issues, we’ll always let you know. To schedule a cleaning with us, call our Chandler office at (480) 899-6229 and one of our team members will be more than happy to assist you.

Will a dental exam be painful?

No! Dental exams and cleanings are non-invasive procedures that shouldn’t painful. However, if you have sensitive teeth, you may feel some slight discomfort during your professional cleaning. Let us know beforehand and we’ll make sure your experience is as comfortable and gentle as possible.

Enhance Your Oral Health With Dr. Otteson

When it comes to your oral wellness, our team at Otteson Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is here to support your at-home efforts with comprehensive dental care. With our standard exams, we can ensure that your wellness is protected from tooth decay and potential oral problems. If you’re ready to take the first step to oral wellness, give our Chandler office a call at (480) 899-6229 today.

Contact Us
Menu