<b>What are Cleanings and Exams?</b>
A cleaning and exam are both essential for keeping your smile healthy and bright. If you continually forgo routine preventative care, smaller problems can and will worsen. This is because a small cavity can turn into needing a root canal. Cleanings and exams are done in our Rivers Family & Cosmetic Dentistry office at our patients’ convenience.

<b>Why would you need a Cleaning and Exam?</b>
The reason a cleaning and exam are necessary is because they both help to keep your smile looking its best. Unfortunately, it can be hard to properly clean your teeth at home to where you are removing all of the necessary plaque. If you tend to miss a lot of areas, you may find that the soft plaque hardens into a substance known as tartar. This tartar can contribute to both tooth decay and gum disease, so it’s best to have it removed professionally.

<b>Who is a candidate for a Cleaning and Exam?</b>
There really is no bad candidate for both cleanings and exams. Dr. Rivers welcomes all new patients into the office to get their smiles looking wonderful. If you would like to come in for your first appointment, rest assured that we provide care in a relaxed and calm environment. Even if it’s been years since your last appointment, it’s never too late to take care of your teeth.

<b>What happens during the Cleaning and Exam process?</b>
The appointment will always begin with a cleaning. This cleaning is performed by a licensed hygienist. The hygienist cleans away tartar and other debris from the teeth. The teeth are then flossed and polished before the gums are checked for signs of disease or inflammation. The next step is for the doctor to come in and perform the exam. The exam allows us to see if you have cavities or other dental problems that need treatment.

If you need a cleaning and exam, call the office today and one of our helpful team members will be more than happy to further assist you.