What happens during a consultation?
Your visit starts with a conversation. You explain what you have been feeling, noticing, or postponing. From there, your mouth is carefully examined to get a clearer picture of your current dental health.
You can expect:
- A full assessment of your teeth and gums
- A discussion about any discomfort, sensitivity, or concerns
- Clear next steps so you understand what needs attention and what can wait
If deeper concerns are picked up, such as signs of infection, this is where early planning is essential. The goal is to keep things simple and manageable from the start. In addition, it's important for a general consultation to be done every 6 months as a preventive measure.
Why is a scale and polish important?
Even with good brushing habits, plaque builds up in areas that are easy to miss. Over time, it can affect both your teeth and your gums.
A scale and polish helps to:
- Remove hardened plaque and surface stains
- Leave your teeth feeling smoother and cleaner
- Support healthier gums and fresher breath
For many patients, this is also the first step before considering treatments that improve the appearance of your smile, such as whitening. A clean, healthy foundation can enhance the overall look of your smile. To maintain optimal oral hygiene, it is recommended to schedule a general consultation every 6 months.
When do I need a filling?
Tooth decay does not always cause immediate pain. It often starts without you noticing. A filling is used to restore the affected tooth and prevent further damage.
Catching it early helps you avoid more involved procedures later, such as crowns or replacement options for missing teeth. If you notice sensitivity, food catching, or a visible dark spot, it is worth having it checked sooner rather than later.
What is root planing, and when is it needed?
Gum health plays a major role in your overall oral health. When plaque builds up below the gumline, it can lead to inflammation and early gum disease.
Root planing is a deeper cleaning treatment that focuses on:
- Removing bacteria from beneath the gums
- Smoothing the root surfaces to support healing
- Helping your gums reattach more effectively to your teeth
This treatment is often recommended when a standard cleaning is not enough to manage gum concerns.