Huntsville SmilesDentistry
Hours (705) 788-9229

Spring · Everyday care

Check-ups & cleanings

A white pine adds one quiet ring each year. A healthy mouth is built the same way, from small daily habits.

A check-up and cleaning is a calm, unhurried visit to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It helps us find small problems early, while they’re simple to fix.

(705) 788-9229
Two wooden toothbrushes in a speckled stoneware cup on a granite windowsill, beside a sprig of cedar and a glass of water

At a check-up, we look closely at your teeth, gums and bite, and at the soft tissues of your mouth. We also screen for signs of oral cancer, which takes only a minute. Then we gently remove the hard build-up, called tartar, that brushing can’t reach, and polish your teeth smooth.

How often you come depends on you. Many people do well with a visit every six months. If you have gum concerns or get cavities easily, we may suggest coming more often. We’ll explain anything we find in plain words.

How it works

  1. 01

    A quick chat

    We ask about your health, your medications and any concerns. If you feel nervous, tell us. We’ll go at your pace.

  2. 02

    X-rays, if needed

    We take x-rays only when they’ll tell us something useful. They help us see between teeth and below the gumline.

  3. 03

    A careful exam

    We check each tooth, your gums and your bite, plus your cheeks, tongue and throat.

  4. 04

    Cleaning and polishing

    We gently scale away tartar, then polish your teeth. We can slow down or take breaks any time you need.

  5. 05

    Your plan

    We show you what we found, answer your questions and suggest when to come back.

Afterwards

Your teeth will feel smooth and clean. If there was a lot of build-up, your gums may be tender for a day. Between visits, brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth once a day. Those small habits do much of the work.

Questions people ask

How much does a check-up cost, and will my insurance cover it?

Costs depend on what you need and on your plan. Many plans cover regular check-ups and cleanings. We’ll give you a written estimate before any treatment, and we can send a pre-determination to your insurer so you know what’s covered.

Do I need x-rays every time?

No. It depends on your age, your risk of cavities and your dental history. Dental x-rays use a very low dose of radiation, and we only take them when they’ll help.

Will the cleaning hurt?

A cleaning usually feels like pressure and scraping rather than pain. If your gums are inflamed or your teeth are sensitive, it can be uncomfortable. Tell us, and we’ll slow down, take breaks or numb the area.

How long does a visit take?

Usually 45 minutes to an hour. A first visit may take a little longer while we get to know you and your history.

Related care

Along the same trail

All care
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Come sit a while.

New patients, returning patients and visitors to Muskoka are all welcome. Tell us what’s going on and we’ll find a time that suits you.

(705) 788-9229

Hours: Mon–Thu, 8 am – 5 pm