Dental Cleanings & Exams in Portland, ME
Preventive visits that protect your oral health and catch small problems before they grow
Preventive Care With a Specialist Safety Net
A professional cleaning does what daily brushing and flossing cannot — it removes hardened tartar, reaches below the gumline, and polishes away surface staining. At Prosthodontics Associates, P.A. in Portland, every preventive visit also includes a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
Because our practice includes five prosthodontists alongside a general dentist, early signs of enamel wear, bite changes, or failing restorations can be identified during a routine cleaning rather than discovered only after symptoms develop. That early detection often means simpler, more conservative treatment.
Digital x-rays are used as needed to reveal what a visual exam cannot — cavities between teeth, bone loss, or issues beneath existing restorations. Our digital imaging produces results instantly and with significantly less radiation than traditional film-based x-rays.
- Thorough tartar and plaque removal above and below the gumline
- Comprehensive exam with oral cancer screening
- Digital x-rays with reduced radiation when indicated
- Early detection supported by on-site prosthodontists
What to Expect at Your Visit
A straightforward appointment designed around thorough, comfortable care
Health History Review
We review your medical and dental history, discuss any changes since your last visit, and address questions or concerns you may have.
Professional Cleaning
A hygienist removes plaque and tartar, cleans between teeth, and polishes surfaces to reduce bacteria and surface staining.
Comprehensive Exam and Imaging
The dentist evaluates your teeth, gums, bite, and soft tissue. Digital x-rays are taken as needed to check for hidden decay, bone health, and other concerns.
Findings and Recommendations
Your dental team explains any findings in clear terms and outlines recommended next steps — from simple at-home care adjustments to treatment planning if needed.
The Value of Consistent Preventive Visits
Catch Issues Early
Routine exams help identify decay, gum disease, and wear patterns at a stage when treatment is often simpler and less costly.
Protect Existing Dental Work
Crowns, implants, bridges, and veneers last longer when supported by regular professional cleanings and monitoring.
Whole-Mouth Perspective
Having prosthodontists on staff means your preventive visit considers not only hygiene but also bite stability, restoration integrity, and long-term function.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How often should I schedule a dental cleaning?
- Most adults benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. Patients with gum disease, a history of heavy tartar buildup, or certain medical conditions may be recommended a more frequent schedule. Your dental team will suggest the interval that fits your situation.
- What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
- A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline. A deep cleaning — called scaling and root planing — reaches further below the gumline to address bacterial deposits on root surfaces. Deep cleaning is typically recommended when gum disease is present.
- What does a comprehensive dental exam involve?
- A comprehensive exam at our practice generally includes a visual and tactile evaluation of teeth, gums, and soft tissue; digital x-rays as needed; an oral cancer screening; and a review of your bite and any existing restorations. The dentist discusses findings with you and outlines any recommended treatment.
- What if I feel anxious about dental visits?
- Our team takes an unhurried approach and is happy to explain each step before it happens. If you have dental anxiety, let us know when you schedule your appointment so we can plan extra time and discuss comfort options with you.
- Why get a cleaning at a prosthodontic practice?
- Having your preventive care at a practice with on-site prosthodontists means early signs of wear, cracking, or bite issues can be caught during a routine visit. If a restoration or specialist evaluation is ever needed, the expertise is already in the building.
Due for a Cleaning?
Schedule your next cleaning and exam at Prosthodontics Associates, P.A. in Portland, ME. Call 207-775-6348 or request an appointment online.