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Dental Exams & Cleanings

Dental Exam

A comprehensive dental exam will be performed by your dentist at your initial dental visit.  At regular check-up exams, your dentist and hygienist will perform the following:

  • Examination of diagnostic X-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.  X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.
  • Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.
  • Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.
  • Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.
  • Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists.  Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:

  • Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface.  Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
  • Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth.  It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva.  The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums.  This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!
  • Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental Exams & Cleanings in Bonham, TX

At Bonham Sunshine Dental, Dr. Kajuri Ramchand typically recommends dental exams and cleanings every three to six months, depending on your individual oral health needs. Patients with a history of gum disease or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent visits. Call our office at 903-583-7786 to determine the schedule that is right for you.

During your comprehensive dental exam, Dr. Ramchand will review diagnostic X-rays to check for decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. She will perform an oral cancer screening of the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, and gums. Your gums and bone will be evaluated for signs of periodontal disease, all tooth surfaces will be examined for decay, and any existing restorations such as fillings and crowns will be assessed for integrity.
A professional dental cleaning at our Bonham office is performed by a Registered Dental Hygienist and includes three key steps: removal of calculus (tartar) that has hardened on the tooth surface above and below the gum line, removal of plaque—the sticky bacterial film that causes gum inflammation—and teeth polishing to remove residual stain and plaque not addressed by brushing and scaling.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during a routine dental cleaning. If you have sensitive teeth or gum tissue, please let our hygienist know before your appointment. Bonham Sunshine Dental also offers sedation dentistry options for patients who experience dental anxiety during any procedure.
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar from above and just below the gum line and is appropriate for patients with healthy gums. A deep cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure for patients with periodontal disease that involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive services such as exams, cleanings, and diagnostic X-rays. Our office staff can verify your insurance benefits and explain your coverage before your appointment. We also offer flexible payment plan options for uninsured patients. Contact us at 903-583-7786 for details.