Exams and Dental Cleanings

Home hygiene is important but not enough.

Smiles by Shields advocates a preventative approach to oral and systemic health. We add a holistic or biological perspective to each routine visit in our office, incorporating therapies such as ozone and laser treatment when appropriate to support oral health and the body’s natural healing processes. We encourage whole-body focus on all oral habits. The goal is to optimize health now and keep problems from arising in the first place.

At Smiles by Shields, we see regular dental appointments – every 6 months, or more if needed – as an opportunity to contribute to your total wellness. We make it our priority to ensure your mouth is in excellent shape.

Dental cleanings are important for preventing the growth of harmful bacteria and slowing the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease (aka gum disease).

Both gingivitis and periodontal disease have been scientifically linked to a wide range of other inflammatory conditions. These include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and even some cancers.

Prevention is key. At your scheduled hygiene appointment, we look for signs of developing oral disease and other dental problems that could affect your overall health. We then discuss options for addressing them, including home care, dietary and lifestyle changes, or corrective dental treatment.

To provide a more complete picture of your oral health, we offer Bristle® saliva testing to analyze your oral microbiome and identify bacteria associated with cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other concerns. We can also examine a small plaque sample under a microscope, allowing us to identify bacteria and other microorganisms that aren’t visible during a routine exam and create a more personalized treatment plan.

The other component of these visits is cleaning – or, to use the clinical term, prophylaxis. There are three big benefits to a professional cleaning.