Dental Checkups & Cleanings – Crown Point, IN
Whip Your Smile Into Shape!
Maintaining good oral health is crucial for overall well-being, yet problems like tooth decay and gum disease often start small and unnoticed. While brushing and flossing at home are vital, they may not suffice for optimal oral health. Scheduling regular dental checkups and cleanings, ideally every six months, is a proactive step toward preserving your smile and avoiding costly treatments.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, the team here at Ornelas Family Dental of Crown Point would be happy to help you whip your smile into shape. Give us a call and we’ll be happy to schedule you an appointment.
Why Choose Ornelas Family Dental of Crown Point for Dental Checkups & Cleanings?
- Caring, Compassionate Dental Team
- Dentist Who Crafts Customized Treatment Plans
- Comfortable Office for Patients of All Ages
Why Are Regular Dental Checkups & Cleanings Important?
Regular dental checkups and cleanings are more than just routine appointments; they are essential preventive measures that can save you time and money in the long run. Although it may seem unnecessary when your mouth feels fine, skipping these visits can lead to costly consequences.
Moreover, routine dental visits can prevent dental emergencies by identifying and addressing issues early on. Detecting a small cavity before it becomes a painful toothache can spare you from the discomfort and inconvenience of emergency procedures. Investing a small amount of time in regular checkups can ultimately save you from the need for more time-consuming treatments down the road, such as root canal therapy or tooth extractions. Additionally, maintaining good oral health through preventive care can lower the risk of broader health issues like heart disease and diabetes.
What to Expect During a Dental Checkup
During a dental checkup, the dentist and their team conduct a thorough examination to assess your oral health. They visually inspect your teeth, gums, existing dental work, and overall bite, looking for any signs of concern. Soft tissue screenings for oral cancer are also part of the checkup, along with taking X-rays to detect any hidden problems beneath the surface. If any issues are identified, a treatment plan is created, and any questions you may have about your oral health or treatment options are addressed. Updating your medical history and medication list is also essential, as certain medications can impact oral health.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
A dental cleaning complements your at-home oral care routine by targeting areas that are difficult to clean independently. Despite regular brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate along the gumline and between teeth. During a professional cleaning, a dental hygienist uses specialized instruments to remove these deposits, reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Additionally, polishing removes minor surface stains, enhancing the appearance of your smile. Flossing is also part of the cleaning process, ensuring that all surfaces are thoroughly clean.
If you need to freshen up your smile a little bit, give us a call and we’ll be happy to meet you!
Checkups & Cleanings FAQs
How often do I need to get dental X-rays?
Dr. Ornelas will take annual images to ensure no areas of concern are developing beneath the surface of your teeth and gums. But there are 3 main types of dental X-rays, and each has its own recommended timeline, as outlined in more detail below:
- Bitewing X-rays are usually taken every 6 to 12 months to detect cavities or other more common dental concerns.
- Periapical X-rays reveal more detailed issues in the roots and are typically taken as needed to assist with treatment planning, implementation, or follow-up.
- Panoramic X-rays might only be required every few years and help spot certain developmental issues, such as spacing concerns, growing wisdom teeth, or other orthodontic problems.
How long does a routine dental exam take?
Routine preventive appointments usually start with your examination, which might only take about 10 to 15 minutes. This is usually enough time for our team to visually inspect your teeth, gums, bite alignment, and any existing dental work, such as fillings or crowns, to ensure everything is functioning as intended.
However, this portion of your visit might take longer if you’ve neglected your dental hygiene or haven’t been scheduling routine exams, or we find areas of concern, such as cavities or gum disease, that require a treatment plan.
How long will my cleaning take?
Standard cleanings help remove even the most stubborn plaque or tartar buildup to help protect your smile and prevent concerns, such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, or chronic bad breath. It usually takes our team about 30 minutes to complete, though it may take longer if there are issues that must be addressed. /p>
What if I can’t afford a checkup & cleaning in Crown Point?
Most patients in the area can expect to spend between $150 and $350 for a routine exam and cleaning, but we understand that you might still be concerned about affording preventive care.
Our office is in-network with Delta Dental Premier and Cigna, though we can also work with other insurance plans to help you maximize any applicable benefits, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Otherwise, those who are uninsured and concerned about costs might benefit from one of the following options:
- In-house dental savings plans. For a flat annual fee, you receive two annual cleanings, exams, and X-rays, plus additional discounts on the services we provide.
- Flexible financing. We also gladly accept flexible payment plans through CareCredit. These low- to no-interest options allow you to divide your total invoice into more manageable installments if your application is approved.
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