- 21 John Yeo Drive Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island C1E 3j3
Routine exams and professional cleanings are the easiest way to keep your smile healthy, fresh, and confident. At Northwest Dentistry, your visit is comfortable, thorough, and tailored to your needs—so small issues are caught early and your teeth and gums stay in great shape.
Every comprehensive exam (and regular checkup) includes:
Review & Conversation
We start by listening—your goals, concerns, and any changes since your last visit. We also review your medical history and medications because overall health can affect oral health.
Diagnostic X-rays (as needed)
Low-dose digital X-rays help us detect concerns we can’t see during a visual exam, such as decay between teeth, bone loss, infections, cysts, or problems with tooth and root positions.
Oral Cancer Screening
A careful check of the lips, cheeks, tongue, floor and roof of the mouth, throat, and neck for any unusual changes. Early detection matters.
Gum (Periodontal) Evaluation
We assess your gums and the supporting bone for signs of inflammation, bleeding, pockets, or recession—early indicators of periodontal disease.
Tooth-by-Tooth Check
Each tooth surface is examined with special instruments to identify soft spots (early cavities), cracks, wear, or sensitivity areas.
Assessment of Existing Work
We evaluate current fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and other restorations to make sure everything is functioning well and sealed properly.
You’ll always get clear explanations, photos/X-rays when helpful, and straightforward recommendations—no pressure.
Professional cleanings (also called prophylaxis) are provided by our Registered Dental Hygienists and typically include:
1) Removal of Calculus (Tartar)
Hardened plaque above and below the gumline is gently removed with specialized instruments. Tartar can’t be removed by brushing or flossing at home.
2) Removal of Plaque
Soft, sticky plaque contains bacteria that can irritate gums and lead to cavities and periodontal disease. We thoroughly remove it from all tooth surfaces.
3) Polishing
Surface stains and residual plaque are polished away, leaving teeth smooth and fresh.
4) Flossing & Rinse
We floss to ensure everything is clean between teeth and rinse away any remaining debris.
5) Fluoride (when recommended)
Topical fluoride can strengthen enamel and help reduce sensitivity or cavity risk—for both kids and adults.
Most people do well with checkups and cleanings every 6 months. If you’ve had gum disease, wear braces, have dry mouth, multiple restorations, or higher cavity risk, we may recommend visits every 3–4 months to keep things on track.
Book a prompt visit if you notice – bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, sensitivity or pain, chipped or broken fillings, sores that don’t heal within 2 weeks, swelling, or sudden changes in a tooth.