Dental Exam & Cleaning
Get a Dental Exam & Cleaning in Birmingham
Upon your initial visit to Dr. Curry’s office, it is recommended you have a comprehensive dental exam. This is important on many levels, but mainly to diagnosis any problems you may be having and any other problems that may exist. This exam and most periodic exams will include the following.
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): this is essential for the detection of decay, bone loss, tumors, or cysts. These radiographs also show position of the teeth and roots
- Oral cancer screening: checking the gums, lips, tongue, and throat for any signs of oral cancer. Dr. Curry also uses Vizilite (which aids in the detection of oral cancer)
- Examination of tooth decay: all surfaces of all the teeth will be checked for any possible cavities
- Examination of the existing restorations: check all existing crowns, fillings, etc.
- Gum disease evaluation: check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional Dental Cleanings (Dental Prophylaxis) are performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. The hygienist will clean your teeth, and usually the Dental Exam will follow the cleaning. During your cleaning, the hygienist will do the following:
- Removal of tartar (calculus): Calculus is plaque that was left on the tooth for a long period of time and has now hardened. While most calculus can form above the gum, some can form below the gums and special dental instruments most be used to remove this calculus. If this calculus is left on the teeth, bone loss can develop and this is how some people lose their teeth!
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is the sticky film that forms on teeth if they aren’t properly cleaned. Plaque is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. These bacteria can produce toxins that in turn, can inflame the gums. The inflammation is the start of Periodontal Disease
- Teeth Polishing: Done at the end of a cleaning, this polishing can remove fine stains and plaque not otherwise removed during the professional cleaning. This leaves your teeth feeling slick and smooth!
X-rays and Routine Cleanings
Seeing the dentist on a regular basis can save you money and save your teeth! It is recommended that patients come in every six months for an exam and cleaning. If you do happen to have a cavity and by finding the cavity in it’s early stages, Dr. Curry will be able to place a very conservative filling. This will lower the amount of reduction of tooth structure and smaller surface fillings are much less expensive to you!
Call today to schedule an appointment with our great hygienist, and let’s get your teeth back on the track to being healthy!
Schedule Your Appointment Today
We're accepting new patients from Vestavia Hills, Cahaba Heights, and the surrounding area. We work with most major dental insurance plans, and our front desk verifies your benefits before your visit so you know what's covered. For treatments that aren't fully covered or for patients without dental insurance, we offer transparent estimates upfront. No surprises.
Call or schedule online to book your first visit. New-patient appointments include a comprehensive exam, the X-rays we need to see what's going on, a cleaning where appropriate, and time to talk through anything you'd like to plan for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's included in a professional cleaning?
Your cleaning is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist and includes removing tartar (hardened plaque, including below the gumline), clearing soft plaque, and polishing the teeth. Polishing lifts fine surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and slick. The hygienist also reviews your brushing and flossing technique with you.
What does the exam check for?
A comprehensive exam reviews your X-rays for decay, bone loss, and cysts or tumors; screens for oral cancer, where Dr. Curry uses Vizilite to aid detection; checks every tooth surface for cavities; inspects your existing crowns and fillings; and evaluates your gums and bone for periodontal disease.
How often do I need a cleaning and exam?
For most patients, a cleaning and exam every six months is recommended. Patients with gum disease or higher risk factors may need to come in more often, sometimes every three to four months, to keep things under control. Dr. Curry sets the interval that’s right for your mouth.
Does the cleaning or the exam come first?
In most visits, the hygienist cleans your teeth first and Dr. Curry’s exam follows the cleaning. Doing it in this order means your teeth are free of plaque and tartar when he examines them, making it easier to spot cavities and early problems. New patients may be examined first.
Why are regular cleanings worth it?
Seeing the dentist regularly protects both your teeth and your wallet. Catching a cavity early means a smaller, more conservative filling, which preserves more of your natural tooth and costs far less than waiting until the decay spreads and needs a crown or root canal. Prevention is the cheaper path.
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