Cleanings & Prevention

Dental cleanings in Lehi are an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental issues. At Thanksgiving Point Dental, we understand the significance of regular dental cleanings and exams to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Whether you’re overdue for a cleaning or are looking for a new dentist, we are here to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. In this post, we’ll walk you through what dental cleanings and exams are, why they are so important, and how we ensure your experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible.

At Thanksgiving Point Dental, our team of experienced professionals, including Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Clark, and Dr. Stringham, are dedicated to providing exceptional care for all our patients. Our dentists take the time to understand your unique needs, ensuring you receive the best treatment possible. If you want a team that blends professional expertise with compassionate care, our dentists are the right choice for dental cleanings in Lehi.

The Importance of Regular Dental Exams

Dental exams are a critical part of your overall oral health routine. These exams allow our dentists to identify any potential issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or other problems that may not be immediately visible to the naked eye. Regular exams are vital because they help us catch issues early before they become more serious and more complex to treat.

What to Expect During a Dental Exam

A dental exam at Thanksgiving Point Dental typically involves the following steps:

1. Medical History Review – We’ll start by reviewing your medical history to identify any health concerns that might affect your oral health.
2. Visual Inspection – The dentist will closely examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of any issues, including decay, gum disease, or oral cancer.
3. X-rays – Depending on your situation, we may use digital X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth and bone structure, helping us detect problems that aren’t visible during the physical exam.
4. Oral Cancer Screening – Our dentists will also conduct an oral cancer exam, which is an essential part of your routine checkup.
5. Discussion and Recommendations—After the exam, the dentist will carefully review their findings with you and provide recommendations for any necessary treatment or follow-up care.

You should schedule a dental exam at least once a year to maintain optimal oral health, though some people may need them more frequently depending on their specific needs. Dental exams are beneficial for everyone, whether you’re a child or an adult, and they can help keep your mouth in good shape for years to come.

The Process of a Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning is performed in conjunction with a dental exam to ensure your teeth and gums stay as healthy as possible. During a cleaning, our hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing may miss. The cleaning process also helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Here’s what you can expect when you visit us for a dental cleaning:

1. Plaque and Tartar Removal – First, our hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler to break up plaque and tartar buildup, which regular brushing and flossing cannot remove. The ultrasonic tool emits gentle vibrations that help loosen the buildup, followed by a scraping tool to remove it from the surfaces of your teeth.
2. Polishing—Once we have removed the tartar from your teeth, we will polish them with a gritty paste to help remove any remaining stains and leave them feeling smooth and fresh.
3. Flossing – After polishing, we floss between your teeth to ensure there’s no remaining plaque or debris. This step also allows the hygienist to check for any early signs of gum disease.
4. Fluoride Treatment – We may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from decay. Fluoride is especially beneficial for patients at higher risk of cavities.
5. Dental Sealants – Dental sealants are a preventive treatment that can protect your teeth from cavities by sealing the grooves on the chewing surfaces. If you want to receive dental sealants during your cleaning, our team at Thanksgiving Point Dental can apply them to help safeguard your smile for years to come. 

Dental cleanings are important for everyone, but they are especially critical for individuals with a history of gum disease, cavities, or poor oral hygiene. Most people need a professional cleaning every six months, though some may need them more frequently, depending on their oral health.

Receive an Oral Cancer Exam During Your Dental Cleaning and Exam

At Thanksgiving Point Dental, we believe in comprehensive care. In addition to your routine cleaning and exam, we also conduct an oral cancer exam as part of our standard procedure. Oral cancer screenings are crucial for detecting potential issues early when treatment is most effective.

An oral cancer exam involves a physical examination of the mouth, tongue, cheeks, gums, and throat to check for signs of cancer or precancerous conditions. If we find anything unusual, we may recommend further testing. These exams are quick and non-invasive, but they can be life-saving. Regular oral cancer screenings paired with your dental cleaning in Lehi give you the best chance of early detection and treatment.

Digital X-Rays and 3D Imaging Enhance Your Dental Cleanings and Exams

Technology plays a crucial role in providing the best possible care. At Thanksgiving Point Dental, we use state-of-the-art digital X-rays to get a detailed view of your teeth, gums, and underlying bone structure. These X-rays help us detect cavities, infections, and bone loss that may not be visible during the physical exam. Digital X-rays provide a safer, faster, and more detailed image than traditional X-rays, making them an invaluable tool for our team.

Additionally, we use advanced 3D dental imagery to enhance our diagnostic capabilities further. 3D imaging allows us to see your mouth in three dimensions, providing a more accurate view of complex dental structures, such as your jaw and teeth roots. This technology is beneficial for planning procedures like dental implants or for detecting issues that may not be apparent through regular X-rays. Together, digital X-rays and 3D imaging ensure we can provide the most effective care during your dental cleaning in Lehi.

Payment Options for Your Dental Cleanings

At Thanksgiving Point Dental, we believe that high-quality care should be accessible to everyone. We offer a variety of payment options, including financing, insurance, and a membership plan, so you can get the dental cleanings and exams you need without worrying about the cost. Our membership plan offers savings on regular cleanings and exams, while financing options allow you to break up the cost of care into manageable monthly payments. We accept most insurance plans, making it easier for you to get the care you need.

We Want to Treat You!

If you need a dental cleaning in Lehi or any other dental care, we’re here to help! At Thanksgiving Point Dental in Lehi, Utah, we pride ourselves on providing comfortable, high-quality dental care for every patient. Contact us today for an appointment so we can help you maintain your best smile!