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Cleanings & Check-Ups

Cleanings & Check-Ups Services Offered in Olympia, WA

Dental cleanings and check-ups are an essential part of preventive dental care. The team of experts at Access Dental, a family and general dentistry practice, provides dental cleanings and check-ups for the residents of Olympia, Washington. If you’re overdue for a professional cleaning and check-up, call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

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Cleanings & Check-Ups Q&A

Why are dental cleanings and check-ups so important?

No matter how well you brush and floss your teeth, nothing can match the power of professional dental cleanings and check-ups. Having your teeth cleaned by a dental practitioner ensures you leave with a sparkling, healthy smile.

Teeth cleanings occur during the same visit as routine dental exams. These appointments provide an opportunity for your dentist to check for signs of gum disease and dental decay. They’re also an important way to screen for oral cancers.

What happens during professional dental cleanings and check-ups?

When you come to Access Dental for your cleaning appointment, the process begins with a quick examination of your gum tissue and teeth.

A unique dental tool called a scaler removes tartar and plaque from your teeth, including the area just beneath your gumline. The next step uses a powered brush and a special gritty paste to remove all traces of bacteria and plaque. This step creates the smooth, polished feel of professional teeth cleaning.

The team then performs professional flossing to clean the areas between your teeth. Then, you thoroughly rinse your mouth with water. The team might also discuss whether a fluoride treatment is appropriate.

What are deep dental cleanings?

Deep dental cleanings are also referred to as scaling and planing. This process is necessary if bacteria and plaque have advanced beneath your gumline to create gum disease.

During a deep dental cleaning, the team uses special tools to remove tartar and plaque within gum tissue pockets that have pulled away from your teeth’ surface. Planing involves altering the surface of your tooth roots to make it harder for bacteria and plaque to take hold.

During dental cleanings and check-ups, the team checks your gum tissue. If the team notices symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis, you may need to have a scaling and root planing procedure.

When should I schedule my dental cleanings and check-ups?

At Access Dental, the appointment schedule for dental cleanings and check-ups is open about one week out or so. The team is fast and efficient, so you can return to your daily routine.

Most people benefit from coming in twice a year for professional teeth cleaning and check-ups. This schedule allows for preventive dentistry treatments, which are necessary to ensure that no condition develops beyond the early stages.

If you’re in need of dental cleanings and check-ups, call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

Access Dental accepts Medicaid for this service.

Testimonials

I've had a lot of bad experiences with dentists in the past. Even unpleasant procedures here were incredibly pleasant because of the staff and how mindful they are of patients and their potential discomfort with frequent checks to make sure you're still doing alright.

One of my first appointments was a root canal for a tooth that started decaying way back before covid hit and I was actually smiling on the way out because of just how nice it was in comparison to others I've been to. All of the employees are incredibly polite and the office has a really nice welcoming feel to it.

Tabby B.

The front desk was awesome they were caring. They actually cared. Dr Kim was on point and was very professional. He handled my teeth with care with his partner named Nelly. They both worked as a team actually they all do for that I'm giving them the five star. And also they take care of your teeth!!!

Augustus N.

I can’t say enough good things about my experience with Dr. Kim. He is extremely knowledgeable, compassionate, and kind. Recently, I had to undergo a procedure that required a lot of patience and a gentle bedside manner, and Dr. Kim guided me through it with incredible skill and empathy. He made me feel comfortable and reassured every step of the way, and I can’t imagine going to anyone else. I highly recommend Dr. Kim to anyone looking for a caring and professional dentist who truly puts his patients first.

Ashley G.

We have not had the greatest dentist anxiety due to the past, and recently my daughter has started struggling after a procedure. I called Access Dental during a very scary time after my daughters procedure ELSEWHERE, and access handled us with so much care. From the awesome front desk ladies, to the dental assistants and dentist that saw us PROMPTLY. I am so so glad we’ve found this place! Definitely will be back.

Carin C.

Everyone was so kind and helpful. My client has special needs and they were extremely accommodating and patient with us. Thank you for making us feel so comfortable!

Becca T.

Hands down the best dental facility I have ever been to!!! Everyone treated me with kindness and respect! Would recommend 100%. It doesn't get better than this!

Acacia R.

Super grateful for this place! I was having crazy tooth pain, called and was able to get in same day. Hadn’t been to the dentist in years and was incredibly nervous but the experience was so easy going and friendly, I can’t thank this place enough. Every person I interacted with was kind, straightforward, and very helpful. Glad I called.

Daniel P.

Was in on time got me in and out in no time for 3 tooth extreaction. Was super surprised at how quick and clean they were about it. Great service!

Jose Ricardo G.

I have massive anxiety going to the dentist, I had a broken tooth that needed extracting. Dr Kim and his assistant were so kind, gentle and made the procedure bearable. 10/10 recommend this office

Chauntay S.

Super smart and gentle really love how he communicates. Staff is friendly and easy to talk to. Would definitely recommend to others.

Ruth B.