A check-up is Dr. Malik looking for problems while they are still small: decay, gum trouble, worn teeth, anything unusual in the mouth. A cleaning removes the hardened plaque a toothbrush cannot, which keeps gums healthy and small problems from becoming big ones.
When you might need this
- It has been six months or more since your last visit.
- You have not seen a dentist in years and do not know where to start.
- Your gums bleed when you brush or floss.
- You can feel a rough, hard build-up behind your lower front teeth.
- You are new to Hurontario & Eglinton and need a dentist for the whole family.
What happens
History and X-rays
You tell us about your health, medications and anything that worries you. X-rays are taken when needed to show decay between teeth and the bone under your gums; recent ones from another dentist can be sent over instead.
The exam
Dr. Malik checks every tooth surface for decay and looks at existing fillings and crowns. He measures your gums, checks how your teeth meet when you bite, and looks at your tongue, cheeks and the roof of your mouth for anything that should not be there.
Scaling
Hardened plaque (tartar) is scraped off above and below the gum line with fine instruments. This is the part that takes longest if it has been a while, and we pause whenever you need to.
Polishing and fluoride
Surface stains and the plaque scaling leaves behind are polished off. If your teeth are prone to decay or sensitivity, a fluoride treatment goes on last.
Plan and next visit
Dr. Malik tells you what he found in plain words and shows you on the X-ray. You leave with a plan for any treatment, in order of what matters most, and a date for your next check-up, usually in six months.
Cost and insurance
A routine check-up and cleaning is usually one appointment. Most dental plans cover check-ups and cleanings, often twice a year. We bill your insurance directly. You see the estimate in writing before anything starts. If it has been years, scaling may need a second visit, and we say so before we begin. No insurance? We tell you the cost up front.
Questions people ask
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Every six months works for most people. If your gums need more attention, Dr. Malik may suggest coming every three or four months for a while, then stretching it out again.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Scaling can feel scratchy, and gums that are inflamed may be tender. Tell us and we slow down, numb the area properly where it helps, and stop if you need a break.
I haven't been to the dentist in ten years. What will happen?
The same thing that happens at any first visit: X-rays, an exam and a cleaning. If there is more to do, you get a plan in order of what matters most, and you set the pace.
Do I need X-rays every time?
Not usually. Dr. Malik takes them when your history and what he sees call for it, and a full set is not repeated at every visit.
Related services
Book a visit
Book a check-up at 5105 Hurontario, Unit 6, or call us and we find you a time.