At South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL, we have been caring for this community since 1983, and one of the most consistent things we have seen over those decades is that patients who maintain regular cleaning and exam appointments experience fewer dental problems, less complex treatment needs, and significantly lower long-term dental costs than those who defer routine care. Prevention is always simpler, less invasive, and less expensive than treatment, and routine cleanings and exams are the foundation that makes prevention possible.
Our doctor and hygiene team approach every cleaning and exam appointment with the same friendly, honest, and reliable standard that has defined South Suburban Family Dental for over forty years. Every finding is explained clearly so you understand exactly what is happening in your mouth and what, if anything, needs attention. There is no pressure, no unnecessary treatment recommendations, and no confusing clinical language that leaves you more uncertain than when you arrived.
Dental Exam
A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit. At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will include the following:
- Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for the detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
- Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
- Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
- Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
- Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
- Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gumline and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
- Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
How Often Should You Schedule A Cleaning?
For most patients, professional cleanings and comprehensive exams every six months provide the maintenance and monitoring frequency needed to keep teeth and gums healthy and catch developing concerns early. Patients with a history of gum disease, a higher cavity risk, or certain systemic health conditions may benefit from more frequent visits, typically every three to four months, to keep active conditions stable and prevent recurrence. Our team determines the recall interval that best serves each individual patient and communicates that recommendation clearly at every visit.
If it has been a while since your last cleaning and exam, there is no judgment here, just a friendly, experienced team ready to help you get back on track. Call our office or book your appointment online at South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL today.