Maintain the health and beauty of your smile with routine dental examinations and cleanings
Dr. Jamie Richard and her team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge in Golden, Colorado, recommend that patients regularly visit for routine dental examinations and cleanings. But what happens during these appointments? How often should you go? Continue reading to learn more about preventative dentistry solutions available at our practice.
What can I expect during my dental examination and cleaning?
- New Patient Initial Appointment. Our team will take great care of you, starting with your initial visit. We are extremely thorough, and schedule 2 hours for your initial appointment. One hour of that will be with Dr. Jamie Richard and her dental assistant, then you will see our dental hygienist for a one hour hygiene visit. In the absence of gum disease, we will get your teeth cleaned that same day.
- Evaluation. Dr. Jamie Richard will examine your mouth visually, with xrays and photographs, and with an instrument called an intraoral camera. This small camera allows her to see areas of your teeth and gums that may be difficult to observe, such as the backs of your front teeth and those at the very back of your mouth. An intraoral camera is a versatile tool because it can also magnify objects up to 30 times their normal size
- Cleaning. Your tooth surfaces will be cleaned using a tool called an ultrasonic scaler. The vibrations from this device loosen plaque and tartar, which the dentist or hygienist can then remove. If you have stubborn tartar buildup, your dental hygienist may use a hand scaler to remove it. You will rinse with water or mouthwash to remove any debris from the cleaning process. Depending on your oral health needs and goals, your provider may also clean teeth below your gum line with special instruments
- Oral cancer screening. In addition to the routine dental examination and cleaning, our team will also provide an oral cancer screening to look for the signs of problems early on
Routine Dental Exams & Cleanings FAQs
Why are routine dental exams and cleanings important?
Regular exams and cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems before they become serious. These visits allow Dr. Jamie Richard to identify early signs of issues, maintain healthy teeth and gums, and support overall wellness through preventive care.
What happens during a routine dental exam?
During an exam, our team evaluates your teeth, gums, tongue, and bite. X-rays may be taken to detect hidden cavities or bone issues, and specialized tools such as intraoral cameras can reveal areas that are hard to see with the naked eye. Any concerns are discussed, and a personalized care plan is developed.
What occurs during a professional teeth cleaning?
Teeth are cleaned with ultrasonic instruments to remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing to smooth tooth surfaces. If necessary, your hygienist will clean below the gumline to prevent gum disease. Regular cleaning reduces bacteria buildup and keeps your smile healthy and bright.
How often should I have an exam and cleaning?
Most patients benefit from visits every six months, though some may require more frequent care based on oral health risk factors such as gum disease, history of cavities, or other medical conditions. Regular appointments help catch problems early and minimize the need for more invasive treatments.
Are routine exams and cleanings covered by insurance?
Yes. Preventive services like exams and cleanings are often fully covered by dental insurance. Some plans also cover X-rays or fluoride treatments. Our team can help you verify your insurance benefits, explain what is included, and provide clear cost estimates for any services not covered.
How much do routine dental exams and cleanings cost?
Costs vary depending on whether additional X-rays or preventive treatments are included. Routine cleanings are often fully covered by insurance. Dentistry at Golden Ridge provides transparent pricing and in-office membership plans to make preventive care accessible for all families.
How can I find a dentist near Golden, CO, for regular exams and cleanings?
Look for a dentist experienced in preventive care, with a family-friendly approach and positive reviews from local patients. Dentistry at Golden Ridge serves Golden and nearby areas such as Lakewood, Arvada, and Wheat Ridge, providing convenient, comprehensive preventive dental care for patients of all ages.
Will I receive guidance on home oral care during my visit?
Yes. Our team provides education on brushing, flossing, and using oral care products effectively. Patients also receive tips on diet, habits, and techniques to maintain a healthy mouth between appointments, ensuring long-term oral wellness.
Are children and older adults suitable for routine exams and cleanings?
Absolutely! Routine preventive visits are important for patients of all ages. Children benefit from cavity prevention and habit guidance, while adults and seniors receive monitoring for gum disease, enamel wear, and other age-related concerns, helping maintain healthy teeth throughout life.
How do I schedule a routine dental exam and cleaning?
Scheduling is simple. Call Dentistry at Golden Ridge or request an appointment online. During your visit, our team will perform a thorough examination, clean your teeth, provide preventive guidance, and create a personalized plan to maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Schedule a visit today
Dr. Jamie Richard and her team at Dentistry at Golden Ridge in Golden, CO, are here to help families achieve and maintain proper oral health and wellness with routine dental examinations and cleanings. Call (303) 951-8515 to request a consultation visit with our team.
Core Values
Every treatment at Dentistry at Golden Ridge is guided by our core values of Excellence in professional service, continued Growth in expertise, a commitment to our patients’ overall Wellness, and a Balance between modern innovations and traditional patient-centered care.
