exams & Hygiene 

Dental examinations include a thorough check of both your teeth (hard tissue) and surrounding tissues (soft tissues), including your lips, tongue, cheeks, and gums.  As part of your examination, the dentist, hygienist, or dental assistant may also take radiographs (dental X-Rays) of your teeth and jaws in order to help diagnose cavities, infections, and diseases of the oral cavity.  Dental examinations for most adults and children should be performed every 6-12 months, or more often if there is a problem, like pain, swelling, or sensitivity.  Parents should bring their young children to the dentist for their first dental examination before their first birthday, or when their first tooth erupts - whichever comes sooner! 

​

Our dental hygienist, Kylie, is specially trained to clean teeth and examine the oral cavity for dental conditions such as gingivitis, as well as provide other preventative care, like application of dental sealants and fluoride.  The hygienist and the dentist work as a team to determine patient needs, provide education, and execute treatment plans regarding a hygiene schedule.  Most patients will see a hygienist every 6 or 12 months, but some patients, especially those with periodontal disease, will see the hygienist more frequently and for more aggressive cleanings.  If it has been longer than a year since your last cleaning.. maybe even 5, 10, 15 years.. do not worry or feel embarrassed!  At Iowa River Dentistry, we are receptive to diagnosing and treating patients with a wide variety of needs, so give us a call! 

​

​