570.714.3883
BLOG
Emergency Care
is_icon_black-01
  • Home
  • About
  • General Dentistry
    • General Dentistry

      • General Dentistry Overview
        • Root Canal Therapy
      • General Dentistry Overview
    • Close
  • Dental Implants
    • Dental Implants

      • Dental Implants Overview
      • Dental Implant Candidacy
      • Supplemental Procedures
      • The Benefits of Smiling
      • Dental Implants Overview
      • Supplemental Procedures
    • Close
  • Gallery
  • Smile Design
    • Smile Design

      • Smile Design Overview
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Crowns
      • Porcelain Veneers
      • Invisalign
      • Full Mouth Rehabilitation
      • Fillings, Onlays, and Inlays
      • Wax-ups
      • Dental Bonding
      • Smile Design Overview
      • Teeth Whitening
      • Crowns & Veneers
      • Invisalign
      • Full Mouth Rehabilitation
      • Dental Bonding
    • Close
  • Wax-ups
  • Cost & Financing
  • Contact
      • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
    • Close
  • Reviews
  • Blog
Dental Hygiene Appointment with Dr. Ian Smith

Learn What to Expect During A Dental Hygiene Appointment

December 27, 2017Dr. Ian SmithDental Health

It’s time for your routine cleaning. While for a lot of people this is a part of their yearly health care, some people put off dental hygiene appointments out of anxiety. Dr. Smith understands that dental anxiety can be a serious issue, and wants patients to know exactly what to expect before they even set foot in the office, so they can be prepared and as comfortable as possible.

Dental hygiene appointments are quick and painless, usually lasting less than an hour. Going to your Kingston dentist for a routine checkup can help us spot early warning signs of gum disease and cavities as well as allowing us to make sure you are reaching all the areas of your mouth when brushing and flossing to help keep infection from damaging your teeth.

What To Expect During A Dental Hygiene Appointment

An Initial Inspection
A dental hygienist or dentist will typically examine your teeth and gums. During this brief inspection, they may use a mirror to get a better look at all the surfaces of your teeth. They will check signs of trouble, of gum disease and cavities. Before your cleaning begins, your hygienist will usually ask if you have any questions regarding your teeth or gums.

Digital X-Rays
As part of your dental check-ups, your dentist will take digital x-rays to help screen for oral issues including:

  • Bone loss
  • Oral abnormalities
  • Tooth decay
  • Tumors and cysts
  • Gum disease
  • Movement of teeth

Removing Plaque And Tartar

Using a scaler, our hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from around and below your gum line. Removing this bacteria helps prevent it from causing gum disease, tooth decay, or cavities. During this process, it’s normal to hear a slight scraping noise. For some people, this can be uncomfortable. If wearing headphones will help, you are more than welcome to listen to music.

Polishing

Using a power toothbrush and special toothpaste, your hygienist will polish your teeth, smoothing the surface and leaving your teeth shiny and less vulnerable to bacteria. Your hygienist may ask what your flavor preference is before starting. This might be a bit loud due to the use of the electric toothbrush which leaves your teeth clean and beautiful.

Professional Flossing

Even though you floss at home, this is still an important step in a routine cleaning. Our Kingston hygienist will thread a piece of floss between your teeth to help remove plaque buildup. This is also a good time to discuss your flossing habits and our hygienist might point out areas of concern or recommend techniques to help improve your oral care routine.
Final Inspection

Once your teeth have been cleaned, Dr. Smith will perform one last check of your teeth. After examining your x-rays, he will look over your gums for disease and check for tooth decay. If you have any questions or concerns, this is the time to ask in order to ensure you are taking good care of your teeth.

Contact Dr. Ian Smith Today

Routine cleanings can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay while making sure you are maintaining a great oral hygiene routine. Dr. Ian Smith is dedicated to helping make sure your smile is healthy and strong by providing the best dental care possible. Contact us today for your routine cleaning appointment.

Tags: dental health, oral care, oral hygiene

Related Articles

Don’t Let Cavities Leave Holes In Your Smile, Get A Filling Today

January 25, 2018Dr. Ian Smith

Improve Your Teeth And The Earth With These Green-friendly Toothbrushes

April 18, 2017Dr. Ian Smith

Tips to Make Brushing More Fun

February 28, 2018nowmedia
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Patient Reviews


"This is an outstanding dental practice. I give it a 5-star rating. Dr.Smith is an excellent dentist. The hygienists, receptionists,billing persons,et al know their jobs very well. Everyone working here is courteous and helpful. The place is spotless. Parking is no problem."

Peter Y. Apr 28, 2016

"I have been a patient of Dr. Ian Smith for 4 yrs. To put how I rate his professionalism is simple. He is one of the most trust worthy and knowledgable dentists I have ever known. His mannerisms and quality of care is above 5star. His staff is equally first class."

Joan C. Apr 24, 2016

"I am very pleased with your overall practice. Your staff is very efficient, friendly and go to extra lengths to ensure that quality service is provided. I am particularly pleased with your attention to detail and concern for all aspects in your offered treatments. Your concern for patient satisfaction is very commendable and appreciated."

John B. Apr 22, 2016

"I have NEVER been to a more thorough dentist in my life! I am so pleased that I found Dr. Smith and his very capable staff, who give me the most thorough check-up I have ever had. He and his staff will surpass your expectations!"

Barbara M. Apr 21, 2016
More Reviews

Ian Smith, DMD

570.714.3883

691 Wyoming Ave
Kingston, PA 18704

Office Hours

Monday 9am-5pm
Tuesday 8am-5pm
Wednesday 8am-2pm
Thursday 9am-5pm/9am-7pm every other week
Friday, Saturday, Sunday by appointment only
Facebook
Google+
Emergency Care
Ian Smith Comprehensive + Cosmetic Dentistry