Preventive · Since 1987
Dental Cleanings in Wilmington, NC
A cleaning removes what brushing cannot reach and gives us a look at everything before it becomes expensive. It is the cheapest appointment in dentistry and the one that prevents the rest.
About cleanings
Our new patient exam is more thorough than a standard recall. It includes an oral cancer screening, a periodontal charting, a tooth-by-tooth assessment, a TMJ and bite evaluation, and an aesthetic consultation if you want one.
If there is gum disease present, a standard cleaning is the wrong treatment. We will explain the difference between a cleaning and periodontal therapy rather than quietly doing one and billing the other.
How it works
- Health history and x-raysWe need to know what is going on below the gum before we touch anything above it.
- Periodontal chartingSix measurements per tooth. This is how gum disease gets caught early.
- CleaningScaling and polishing, with ultrasonic instruments where they help.
- Doctor examDecay check, oral cancer screening, bite and joint assessment.
- Plan and scheduleAnything that needs attention gets explained and scheduled before you leave.
Recovery and aftercare
Gums may be tender for a day if there was a lot of buildup. Brush twice, floss once, and come back on the interval we recommend rather than the one your calendar prefers. Some patients need three or four month intervals, and that is a clinical call.
Cost and coverage
Preventive visits are covered at or near 100 percent by most dental plans, usually twice a year with no deductible. If you have no coverage, this is still the least expensive way to avoid the treatments that are not cheap.
You may be a candidate if
- It has been six months, or six years, since your last visit
- Bleeding when you brush or floss
- Persistent bad breath
- Tartar you can see or feel behind the lower front teeth
- A new move to the area and no dentist yet
Dental Cleanings by town
We see patients from across New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender and Onslow counties.
In their own words
Hear from Dr. Josh Winneberger
Dr. Winneberger on getting you numb without you noticing, and helping nervous patients get comfortable in the chair.
Questions we get asked
How often should I get a cleaning?
Twice a year for most people. Patients with a history of gum disease do better at three or four month intervals, and we will tell you which group you are in.
It has been years. Will you lecture me?
No. We see it constantly and it is not interesting to us. We will look at where you are and build a plan forward.
Does a cleaning hurt?
Not usually. If there is significant buildup or inflamed tissue it can be tender, and we can numb the area.
Why do I need x-rays every time?
You do not. Bitewings on a routine interval and a full series every several years is the standard. We take what is diagnostically necessary.
What is the difference between a cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A cleaning works above and just below the gum line on healthy tissue. Scaling and root planing goes deeper, treats active gum disease, and is usually done in halves with anesthetic.
Dental Cleanings
One trip. Everybody seen.
We block consecutive appointments so a family visit is one morning rather than three separate afternoons.
- General, cosmetic, orthodontic and surgical care under one roof
- Consecutive family scheduling on request
- Sealants and preventive care for children
- Most major dental plans accepted
Nervous child? Tell us before the appointment and we will slow the whole thing down.
Request an appointment
We reply the next business day.
Please do not include Protected Health Information. For anything urgent, call (910) 762-0958.
