serving ballard since 1974

Exams and Cleanings

Dental Cleanings

When you visit us for your regularly scheduled checkups every six months, we will begin with a professional cleaning. Our highly-skilled hygienists use professional dental equipment to carefully and effectively remove all traces of plaque and tartar, both of which contain oral bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums if left on your teeth. While you can brush most plaque from your teeth at home, when it calcifies into tartar, you will need a professional cleaning to remove it. When plaque and tartar build up, it can lead to decay, which can ultimately cause cavities, requiring dental fillings to remove and repair your affected teeth.

Dental Exam

During the exam portion of your visit, we will carefully check for signs that could indicate the presence of a developing issue such as tooth decay or gum disease. We’ll also look for signs of worn down or damaged tooth structure, imbalances in your bite, and other potential indicators of trouble. Using digital X-rays and an intraoral camera, we can gain a clear picture of your teeth, gums, and oral structures to ensure a highly accurate examination and diagnosis. If we do find anything amiss, we will suggest appropriate treatments.

Scaling & Root Planing

In cases of deeper embedded bacteria, we can use scaling and root planing clean the roots of your teeth, beneath the gumline. These procedures involve carefully accessing your teeth roots and removing plaque and tartar from their surfaces. Then, we’ll smooth the root surfaces to make it less likely that oral bacteria will cling to them.

Oral Cancer Screenings

As part of your routine dental examination, we will conduct a comprehensive oral cancer screening, to specifically check for the telltale signs of oral cancer. These may include lesions, ulcers, discolored areas of your oral tissues, rough patches, sores, and more. We’ll also consult with you to determine what habits or lifestyle choices may increase your risks of developing oral cancer, such as smoking or chewing tobacco. Anyone, regardless of age or health can develop oral cancer, so it is important to be vigilant in looking for signs. If we do find anything concerning, we can take a tissue sample and send it to a lab for a biopsy, keeping you entirely informed at every step.

Schedule Your Exam And Cleaning Today

If it has been over six months since your last checkup, we invite you to schedule an appointment today. You can call Ballard Neighborhood Dentist office in Seattle, WA, today at 206-789-2555. We also proudly serve the residents of Shoreline, Edmonds, Crown Hill, Loyal Heights, and all surrounding communities.

Cosmetic, Restorative, and General Dentistry

It is our goal to provide comprehensive dental care for your whole family. Our wide range of services means that you can see us for all of your needs — without having to visit multiple practices to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.