Cleanings & Prevention

Cleanings & Prevention

Healthy smiles start with prevention. At Northwest Dentistry, our goal is to help you keep your natural teeth—and your gums and jaw—healthy for life through personalized, proactive care.

A strong preventive plan is a partnership between you at home and our team in the clinic. With good daily habits, routine checkups, and the right in-office treatments, you can reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, tooth loss, and unexpected dental emergencies.

Why Prevention Matters

Why Prevention Matters

  1. Dental exam — We evaluate teeth, gums, bite, and jaw function, review your health history, and discuss any concerns.
  2. Professional cleaning — Gentle removal of plaque and tartar, plus stain polishing for a fresh, smooth feel.
  3. Dental X-rays (as needed) — Low-dose digital imaging to spot concerns that aren’t visible during an exam.
  4. Personalized recommendations — At-home care tips and, if needed, preventive treatments like fluoride or sealants.
  5. Simple next steps — A clear plan for follow-up care and the ideal recall schedule for you.

Key Preventive Treatments

Fluoride Therapy

Fluoride helps remineralize enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and sugars. We may recommend in-office fluoride for children, teens with orthodontics, adults with higher cavity risk, or patients with sensitivity or dry mouth.

Dental Sealants

Sealants are thin, protective coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to help prevent cavities—especially helpful for children and teens, and sometimes for adults with deep grooves. Quick, comfortable, and non-invasive.

At-Home Care That Makes a Difference

How Often Should I Come In?

Most patients do well with visits every 6 months. If you’re managing gum inflammation, have a history of periodontal disease, wear braces, experience dry mouth, or are at higher cavity risk, we may recommend more frequent visits (e.g., every 3–4 months) to keep you on track.

If you’ve been treated for gum disease, ongoing periodontal maintenance is key:

Signs You May Need a Sooner Visit