Gentle, skilled cleanings and check-ups support a lifetime of healthy smiles and good health!
The office of Jamie J. Alexander, D.D.S., PA, in Boynton Beach, Florida, is committed to highly personalized care and ongoing patient support. This dedication shows in our professional dental cleanings and check-ups. These routine visits are fundamental to maintaining and restoring oral health. Since oral health is so connected to overall health and well-being, the benefits of check-ups transcend an attractive and healthy smile!
Comfortable, thorough dental cleanings
Our dental hygienists apply their special training and tools to remove harmful plaque build-up. When plaque is not removed from the teeth, it hardens into stubborn tartar or calculus. Tartar erodes the teeth and triggers a destructive process that erodes the gums. Gummy tissue surrounds, protects, and attaches our teeth to it. So, it is vital to the structural integrity and health of the teeth.
Advanced tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease lead to tooth loss if not treated promptly and properly. During your cleaning appointment, or “prophylaxis,” we discuss and demonstrate recommendations for home care that are ingenious and tailored to your unique needs. When in the kind and skilled hands of our technicians Tammy and Vicki, your comfort throughout the cleaning is supported. A gentle touch is essential; teeth may be sensitive, and gums may be painful if inflammation is present. We need you to have a good experience. That way, you will keep coming back to us for the follow-up appointments and ongoing hygiene visits that you need. These visits contribute heavily and favorably to your long-term health and quality of life.
Speaking of active disease, patients may require more thorough cleanings depending on their needs. Earlier-stage gum disease can be resolved with a “deep clean,” Scaling and Root Planing (SRP). Bacteria, plaque, and other harmful substances are removed below the gum line and root surfaces are smoothed. Rough root surfaces attract bacteria. In turn, the SRP process eradicates destructive bacteria and encourages gum healing and rejuvenation.
Dental check-ups
No visit for a professional cleaning would be complete without Dr. Alexander taking a look inside your mouth. During these exams, he will look for certain trouble signs. Assessments include:
• Screening for oral cancers – He will examine the head, neck and intraoral areas visually, by touch, and with cutting-edge diagnostics. Pre-cancers and cancerous lesions can arise in areas such as along the gums, cheeks, tongue, and throat
• Periodontal screening for gum health – Dr. Alexander pinpoints the presence of gingival inflammation or infection. He and our hygienists can use specialized instruments to measure the depth of the spaces that form between the teeth and gums as the disease takes hold. These periodontal pockets provide insight into the extent of damage to the gums, information which further informs our treatment planning
• Check for dental caries or cavities – We can detect even early-stage enamel erosion and look for signs of damage to visible areas such as the biting surfaces
• Occlusion screening for “bite” – Your “bite” refers to the relationship between the opposing teeth in the upper and lower jaws and how they touch when you close your mouth. Dr. Alexander has developed a particular interest and expertise in this area. So, you can trust his accurate diagnostics and options to address malocclusion or misalignment
We always build in the time to address all questions. No question is silly to us! We pride ourselves in non-judgmental, authentically kind, and fear-free dentistry.
Furthermore, patients always leave our office in Boynton Beach, Florida, with a clear idea of the state of their oral health and what to do next to enhance or sustain their healthy, eye-catching smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleaning and Check-Ups
How long does a dental cleaning and exam take?
Most dental cleanings and exams typically last between 45 and 60 minutes. The exact time depends on your oral health and whether X-rays are needed. If it’s been a while since your last visit, the appointment may take a little longer.
What are the risks of skipping regular dental cleanings?
Children, teens, adults, and everyone needs routine dental screenings. If you miss them, minor issues can progress gradually into painful and costly problems. To put things in perspective, potential consequences of neglecting dental hygiene include tooth decay and periodontal disease. Over time, these issues can lead to tooth loss and other complications.
Why are oral cancer screenings essential?
Many people diagnosed with oral cancer are often discovered when it’s too late. Regular mouth cancer screenings help detect the disease when it’s early and easier to treat. We recommend mouth cancer exams during your bi-annual dental check-ups, although some people may need more frequent screenings. Oral cancer screenings are quick and non-invasive, but they can potentially save a life.
How often should I schedule dental check-ups and cleanings?
Most patients should visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups. However, this is just the baseline. Others may require routine visits every 3-4 months, especially those who are susceptible to gum disease and tooth decay. Our team will recommend a schedule that fits your needs.
Are dental cleanings painful?
Dental cleanings are designed to be comfortable and gentle. However, you may feel pressure or mild sensitivity, especially if you have gum inflammation. Please let the hygienist know if you feel uncomfortable so that adjustments can be made.
Why has my dentist suggested deep teeth cleaning?
We’ll recommend deep teeth cleaning if you’re clinically diagnosed with gum disease. This two-step procedure removes plaque and bacteria below the gumline. This helps reduce inflammation and prevent further bone loss. Unlike routine cleanings, deep teeth cleans are not optional. Without them, periodontal disease can progress and result in bone loss and loose teeth.
What happens if I have skipped dental visits?
No worries! It’s never too late to restart care. Our office will assess your oral health and create a personalized, judgment-free treatment plan. We have met patients who haven’t been to a dentist in many years, and we always treat them with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Does insurance cover dental check-ups and cleanings?
Most dental insurance plans cover routine exams and cleanings, often twice a year. However, coverage varies by plan. Our office will review your coverage and outline the benefits included. Don’t have insurance? Don’t worry! You can access high-quality care without breaking the bank. We offer dental financing that allows you to break down the cost into budget-friendly installments.
Why is it important to maintain regular dental visits even if I feel fine?
Many people have been wired to visit the dentist only when they feel pain or notice a problem. However, many dental issues develop silently. Cavities, gum disease, and oral infections often show no early symptoms. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to catch problems early, when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and more affordable. Never skip routine exams and cleanings, even when everything feels fine.
How do I book my dental appointment in Boynton Beach, FL?
It's easy! Dial (561) 739-4778, and our friendly team will guide you from there. We'll help you find a time that is convenient for you and keep you on track with optimal oral health.
