Comprehensive Exam
A routine visit to your dentist will include a comprehensive oral examination. Your dentist will assess your oral health including your teeth, jaw, and the soft tissues of your mouth to identify any potential concerns. They are looking for cavities, signs of gum disease, cracks in your teeth, and any other threat to the health of your mouth so that the necessary treatment can be provided. An oral cancer screening is also a part of the comprehensive exam. This involves an evaluation of your mouth, jaw, and neck to detect any abnormalities that may need to be addressed.Teeth Cleaning
A professional dental cleaning will typically include 3 steps:- Cleaning. A dental hygienist will clean your teeth using a variety of dental tools. Plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) are removed from your teeth.
- Polishing. Your teeth will be polished using an electric rotating tool that smooths the enamel.
- Flossing. During most cleanings your teeth will be professionally flossed.
Dental X-Rays
Once a year you will need to have dental X-rays. These images allow your dentist to detect cavities or abnormalities that may be invisible to the naked eye. As a precaution, a protective apron is placed over your body during dental X-rays to prevent radiation exposure to your vital organs.Additional Treatments
If necessary or requested, these additional treatments may be included in a routine dental checkup:- Fluoride treatments. Fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to strengthen the enamel to resist decay and reduce sensitivity.
- Dental sealants. Teeth that are at risk for cavities may be sealed for prevention.
- Custom mouthguards. If you grind your teeth or play sports, a custom mouthguard can be created to protect your teeth from damage.
Benefits of Regular Dental Checkups
- Prevention. The biggest advantage to regular dental checkups is that they are preventive, meaning they prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health concerns, allowing you to avoid restorative treatments.
- Early detection. Dental checkups and X-rays often identify potential concerns in the earliest stages, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes for patients.
- Affordable. Routine dental checkups are typically covered in full by most dental insurance plans. Even without insurance the cost is very affordable.
- Improved health. Not only does your oral health improve with regular dental checkups, your overall health is improved. Oral health is linked to a variety of severe health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory disease, and cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Checkups
Do dental cleanings hurt?
A routine dental cleaning should not cause any discomfort. The entire process is designed to be effective, yet comfortable for patients. Advancements in technology have improved the patient experience even more, making dental visits more relaxing.Why do I need to have my teeth cleaned twice a year?
The rate at which most people accumulate plaque on their teeth and the rate at which plaque can cause oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease is about 6 months. Some patients may need more frequent dental cleanings, such as on a quarterly basis.Schedule Your Appointment Today at Zuri Dental
Get started on a regular schedule for dental checkups today and start reaping the benefits. Call or contact us to make an appointment.At Zuri Dental, our experienced team aims to provide the highest-quality, comprehensive dental care, including facial aesthetics under one roof. Helmed by Board-Certified, Dr. Rahimah Maina, our team enjoys treating patients from ages 1 to 100+ to achieve and sustain excellent, lifelong oral health.
As an all-age dental practice, Dr. Maina provides complete preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments. Dr. Maina has also integrated facial aesthetic treatments including dermal fillers (Juvederm) and injectables (Botox) to her practice.
Born in Kenya, and raised in Maryland, Dr. Maina attended one of the nation's oldest and most respected dental institutions, The University of Maryland School of Dentistry. After completing her education, she began practicing in Washington D.C., where she gained significant experience in both periodontal and prosthodontic treatments.
Blending the Power of Technology, with the Personalized Attention
Although Zuri Dental leverages all of the advancements of innovative dental technology, Dr. Maina knows that technology is no substitute for personalized attention. She aims to make every patient feel heard, understood, and supported. To that end, she takes all the time that is necessary to ensure that each patient is empowered with knowledge about their oral health. When restorative treatments are necessary, Dr. Maina explains all options and works collaboratively with patients to design the treatment plan that they select.
Dr. Maina’s first obligation is to help patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles, but she knows that patients who feel insecure about the appearance of their smiles, often suffer from low self-confidence. As such, Dr. Maina provides a full suite of cosmetic treatment options that can correct virtually any imperfection in the bite or smile. From teeth whitening to Invisalign, dental veneers, and everything in between, patients will find no stronger, more capable partner to help them achieve the smile they have always wanted.
Facial Esthetics at Zuri Dental
Because of her vast education and expertise in facial structure–both skeletal and musculature– Dr. Maina is also uniquely qualified to provide cosmetic esthetics to patients. Those looking for fuller lips, a more defined jaw, minimized lines and wrinkles, and a more youthful appearance will find a supportive aesthetic partner and provider at Zuri Dental.
Book Your Appointment at Zuri Dental
Dr. Maina and her team at Zuri Dental welcome new patients from Rockville, the greater DMV area, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, and surrounding areas. To learn more, or to book an appointment, call 301-468-9001 or send us a message.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Offer a Payment Plan for Uninsured Patients?
Yes. We offer flexible payment plans for dental care. We also accept CareCredit, which is a third-party financing company for all dental care and facial esthetic treatments.
Do You Have Sedation for Nervous Patients?
We offer nitrous oxide for relaxation and mild sedation during dental appointments. Patients with dental phobias and fears may also request conscious oral sedation, via prescription that you’ll take before your appointment. If you require medication you will need a driver to accompany you to and from your appointment.
