What Is A Dental Exam And Cleaning?

The goal of your dentist is to protect and preserve the health of your teeth, mouth and gums. An essential element of this strategy is ensuring that you visit regularly for a dental exam and cleaning.


Let’s take a look at why this routine appointment is so important.

The Threat

A little prevention goes a long way. The thing that we’re trying to prevent is the development of tooth decay and periodontal disease, popularly known as gum disease. Together with your regular brushing and flossing, regular dental exams and cleanings are the front line of defense against these oral conditions.

A Dental Exam and Cleaning Helps to Prevent or Diagnose:

  • Oral cancer
  • Periodontal disease
  • Tooth decay

I Look at My Teeth and Gums Regularly when I Brush and Floss. Why Do I Need a Dental Exam?

No one is more familiar with the surface appearance of your teeth, mouth, and gums than you are. Our dentist is trained to look for what you may be missing when looking in the mirror. They also have diagnostic tools like x-rays that allow them to look under the surface and see what may not be readily apparent. You may, for example, have the early stages of gum disease without displaying any symptoms.

I Clean My Teeth at Home. Why Do I Need a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Brushing and flossing at home is extremely important. But it is still possible to miss places, such as those in hard-to-reach areas like the back of the mouth. Plaque can build up very quickly on the teeth, eventually forming tartar that only a dental professional can remove.

What Happens at A Dental Cleaning Appointment?

Your dental hygienist will use special tools to scrape away any plaque or tartar that they find on your teeth. This is the best way to prevent gum disease from gaining a foothold.


You will also receive a dental flossing and have your teeth polished so that they are extremely smooth and attractive.

Your Dental Exam and Cleaning

If you have been putting off your next dental exam and cleaning appointment, contact our dentist. This type of routine appointment is an investment in your oral health, allowing you to prevent costly problems and have them treated at an early stage if detected. New patients are welcome.

Dr. Maha Enin, DDS

Dr. Maha Enin believes in providing the highest level of comprehensive quality care to all patients at Royal Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry.  With 20 years of experience in dentistry, Dr. Enin also volunteers her free time at a dental clinic for families in the Manassas, VA community.

More About Dr. Enin