What to Expect During a Dental Exam

Every patient’s needs are unique, but when you visit us for dental care in Marietta, most dental exams include the following:

  • X-Rays – A powerful tool for detecting cysts, decay, bone loss, and tumors, while also helping us evaluate tooth and root positioning.
  • Examining Restorations – We’ll check your crowns, fillings, and other dental work to ensure they remain stable and functional.
  • Oral Cancer Screening – A careful exam of your throat, gums, tongue, lips, neck, and tissues for early signs of concern.
  • Checking for Tooth Decay – Using precise instruments, we carefully evaluate each tooth surface for cavities.
  • Screening for Gum Disease – We assess your gums and supporting bone to identify early stages of periodontal disease.

If you’re experiencing pain or have a history of specific issues, additional steps may be taken to address your concerns.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Your cleaning will typically be performed by one of our skilled Registered Dental Hygienists. As part of our commitment to preventative dental care, standard cleanings often include:

  • Plaque Removal – Plaque is a sticky, nearly invisible film of bacteria that can cause gum inflammation and disease if not professionally removed.
  • Tartar Removal – Hardened plaque (tartar) builds up above and below the gumline and requires specialized instruments to eliminate.
  • Polishing – We polish your teeth to remove lingering plaque and surface stains, leaving your smile smooth, fresh, and clean.

Why Both Cleanings And Exams Matter

Dental cleanings and exams serve two different but equally important purposes. Cleanings remove the buildup that daily brushing and flossing can’t fully eliminate, while exams allow us to detect problems like decay, gum disease, or oral cancer early on. Together, they form the cornerstone of preventive dental care—helping you maintain both a healthy smile and long-term overall wellness.

FAQs

Most patients benefit from visiting every six months, though we may recommend more frequent visits if you have gum disease, ongoing dental work, or a higher risk of cavities.

A dental exam focuses on diagnosing issues like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, while a cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and stains as part of preventative dental care.

Cleanings are generally gentle and comfortable. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, we’ll make adjustments to keep you relaxed throughout the visit.

Regular exams and cleanings help detect problems early and prevent issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Preventative care saves you from more invasive treatments later.

Yes. We welcome patients of all ages and offer family-friendly care designed to help children, teens, and adults maintain healthy smiles.

Take the Next Step Toward a Healthier Smile

At Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry, we’re here to make sure your routine visits are comfortable, thorough, and tailored to your needs. By staying consistent with cleanings and exams, you invest in preventative dental care that protects your smile for years to come. Whether it’s catching concerns early or keeping your teeth looking and feeling their best, our goal is to provide exceptional dental care in Marietta that supports your overall health.

Call us today at (770) 578-1331 to schedule your next visit. We look forward to helping you maintain a confident, healthy smile.