What Happens During a Cleaning and Exam?
A dental cleaning and exam is your first line of defense against cavities, gum disease, and the kind of problems that tend to get worse when left alone. During your cleaning, we remove the plaque and tartar that brushing at home simply cannot reach, then polish your teeth to leave them smooth and fresh. The exam portion gives your dentist a full look at your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health, using digital x-rays and intraoral imaging to see what the eye alone might miss.
At Sullivan Dental Partners, we approach dental cleanings and exams in Brentwood, TN as more than a routine box to check. Every visit includes a thorough review of your dental history, a personalized conversation about anything you’ve noticed, and a clear explanation of what we find. Our digital imaging technology gives us a detailed, accurate view of your oral health so we can catch concerns early and plan ahead with you.
Most adults need cleanings twice per year
Digital x-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film
Oral cancer screening is included as part of every comprehensive exam
Transformations That Last
"From Losing My Entire Bottom Jaw To Fully Functional Again"
"My Smile Line Was Disappearing. Now It's Completely Restored"
Be our Next Success Story!
Benefits of Dental Cleanings and Exams
Fresher breath every single day
Catch problems while they're still small
Keep your natural teeth longer
Healthier gums, less sensitivity
Confidence in your smile between visits
Peace of mind about your overall health
See What's Possible for Your Smile
Be our Next Success Story!
Request an appointment with one of our doctors and start your smile journey today.
What to Expect at Your Cleaning and Exam
A Full Health Review
Before anything else, we take a few minutes to review your medical and dental history and ask about anything you've noticed since your last visit. If you're new to our practice, this is also where we take digital x-rays so we have a complete, accurate picture of your oral health from the start. You'll have a chance to ask questions and share any concerns before your cleaning begins.
Your Professional Cleaning
Your hygienist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline, including areas that brushing and flossing at home can't reach on their own. We use gentle, precise instruments throughout, and most patients find this part of the visit completely comfortable. Your teeth are then polished to remove surface staining and leave them smooth and clean.
Your Comprehensive Exam
Your dentist reviews your x-rays and performs a thorough hands-on exam, checking your teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissues. This includes a quick oral cancer screening. You'll hear a plain-language summary of what we found and what, if anything, we'd recommend keeping an eye on. If treatment is needed, we'll walk you through your options clearly before you leave.
Ready to Feel Good About Your Smile Again?
Flexible Payment Plans for Your Smile
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
NO Credit Score Impact Until Plan Selected.
Don't Wait to Smile. Check out Our Payment Options.
Dental Cleaning and Exam FAQs
How often do I actually need a cleaning and exam?
What if I haven't been to the dentist in a while?
Is a professional cleaning really necessary if I brush and floss every day?
Will the cleaning hurt?
What does the exam actually check for?
Do I need x-rays at every visit?
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
How long does a cleaning and exam typically take?
Can I come in even if I don't have a specific problem?
Does my cleaning include an oral cancer screening?
Still Have Questions?
