Dental Cleanings and Exams
in Columbus Ohio’s Italian Village

What to Expect During Our Teeth Cleaning and Exams

During the dental exam portion of the visit, our dentist or a dental hygienist will assess your oral health and determine your risk of developing any further issues by checking your mouth, face, and neck for atypical attributes. This helps us stop problems before they arise. You will also receive a professional tooth cleaning.

Dr. Wood or a dental hygienist will perform your dental cleaning. Every person’s mouth is unique, so your dental checkup will be custom-tailored to your specific situation. However, the process tends to follow the same general outline.  First, our dentist or dental hygienist will use tools like a curette or ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque, calculus, and other debris from your teeth’s surfaces and gum line. These technologies allow us to more effectively break up the hardened deposits that build up in your mouth without damaging the tooth. We may then choose to brush your teeth, typically with a special gritty toothpaste. We tend to use a high-powered electric brush that may emit a scary grinding noise, but you can relax. This is a completely painless process. You will then enjoy an expert flossing, rinsing, and fluoride treatment.

How Much Does a Teeth Cleaning Cost?

Every insurance plan will include its own set of prices for the dental services that it covers. Often, your insurance will cover 100% of a dental cleaning and exam because they are preventative measures. However, if you have delayed visiting the dentist for a long time, you run the risk of developing gum disease. If our dentist does find that to be the case, we shift from preventative cleaning to active treatment. This may impact how your insurance company will evaluate the treatment. If you have any questions about your dental insurance or payments, the staff in our conveniently located office in Columbus is always happy to answer them.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned and Examined?

Experts recommend that you come into the office for a dental checkup and teeth cleaning twice per year or every six months. However, this assumes you are generally in good health. If you suffer from gum disease, we recommend a dental exam and thorough cleaning every three months until our dentist confirms a sufficient improvement in the health of your gums.

What is Fluoride Treatment, and Why is It Important?

Fluoride treatment is a simple, yet powerful, preventive dental measure designed to protect your teeth from decay. During this treatment, fluoride—a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel—is applied to your teeth to help fight cavities. Fluoride not only protects against the breakdown caused by bacteria but also promotes the remineralization of early decay. Regular fluoride treatments are particularly beneficial for patients at higher risk of developing cavities, including children and adults with weakened enamel.

What is Plaque, and Why is It Important to Remove It?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar—a tough, calcified deposit that sticks to your teeth and below the gumline. While plaque can be removed at home, tartar requires professional removal during a dental cleaning. If left untreated, tartar can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay, making it important to schedule regular cleanings with your dentist to keep your teeth healthy.

Can Cleanings Help with Bad Breath?

Yes, professional dental cleanings can significantly improve bad breath. Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by plaque and tartar buildup, which harbor bacteria that produce foul-smelling odors. During a dental cleaning, plaque and tartar are thoroughly removed from your teeth and gums, reducing the bacterial load in your mouth. Additionally, professional cleanings help prevent gum disease, a common contributor to bad breath. Fresh breath is one of the many benefits of maintaining regular teeth cleaning appointments.

Why Choose 4th Street Dental Studio for Your Teeth Cleaning?

Our practice offers more than just clean teeth. We provide a welcoming, modern environment where you feel comfortable and well-informed. Dr. Robert Wood is a third-generation dentist who takes pride in offering the best in comprehensive dental cleaning and exams. Here’s why patients choose us:

• Comprehensive Care: We offer routine dental cleanings, oral cancer screenings, and fluoride treatments.
• Personalized Service: We cater to all ages, from toddlers to adults, ensuring each patient receives the attention they need.
• Advanced Technology: We use the latest tools, including digital X-rays, to catch issues early and provide precise care.