Dental Exams & Cleanings in Puyallup, WA

Even if you take great care of your teeth and gums at home (and we know that you do!) routine dental exams and professional teeth cleanings are an important part of maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Routine cleanings can help reduce your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease, while dental exams provide our team with a chance to diagnose any problems that may have arisen since your last appointment. To learn more about our services or schedule your next visit, please contact us!

What does a dental exam screen for?

Routine dental exams are important for identifying and treating potential dental issues. Your dentist will assess your teeth and gums for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and dental trauma. Dental professionals are also trained to identify signs of rarer conditions as well, like oral cancer. In addition to examining the physical appearance of your teeth and gums, X-rays will be used to get a look at the inside of your teeth and jawbone to identify possible issues like infections, cysts, and decay that occurs in between teeth.

Do I need a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning?

Deep cleanings are meant for patients who have periodontal disease, and they involve cleaning beneath the gum line to remove built-up plaque and tartar. These cleanings are more invasive but necessary for patients who have advanced gum disease, as they help maintain the health of the patient’s gums and prevent the disease from developing further. If you do not have periodontal disease, routine teeth cleanings that focus on cleaning above the gum line and in between the teeth should be sufficient for maintaining positive oral health.

Are routine cleanings and exams covered by insurance?

Many dental plans offer full coverage for biannual cleanings and dental exams, so if you have dental benefits, we recommend taking advantage of them and scheduling your routine dental care. Uninsured? Our office provides an in-house dental membership plan that covers two exams, all necessary X-rays, and offers a 40% discount on cleanings. Our practice also accepts payment plans through CareCredit^® and LendingClub^®. To learn more about your financing options, please visit our financial page or contact our friendly front office team.