Understanding the Role of Regular Dental Exams for a Healthy, Stunning Smile

Caring for your dental health takes more than just brushing and flossing your teeth. The foundation of a healthy, beautiful smile consists of two essential factors: at-home dental care and two dental appointments per year. Unfortunately, many patients observe daily routine maintenance but donโ€™t adhere to regular dental checkups.

Our team of dentists reminds patients of the importance of regular dental exams. These checkups reduce the occurrence of long-term dental problems and assist in dealing with oral issues before they become painful and costly to treat. If itโ€™s been years before you last saw a dentist in Ormond Beach, Florida, now is the time to redeem your healthy smile. Please book an appointment with the team at Cooper Dental Group for a comprehensive dental exam.

What to expect during a dental exam

Even though you think your teeth and gums are in great shape, dental exams unearth oral issues that may have escaped your notice. Dental exams involve various procedures to ensure we leave no stone unturned.

  • Physical examinations: Our dentists examine each tooth and gums to ensure nothing is missed. The objective is to look for signs of cavities, gum disease, failing dental work, and other abnormalities.
  • Digital x-rays: Your dentist can only see as much by just looking and physically probing your mouth. We unearth issues lurking beneath your gum line through digital radiographs. Through x-ray imaging, we can spot problems like hidden cavities, wisdom teeth, bone loss, jaw misalignment, cysts, etc.
  • Oral cancer exam: Our dental team examines your soft tissues to spot ulcerations, lesions, bumps, sores, and other abnormalities that might indicate the presence of mouth cancer.
  • Dental cleaning: Despite how diligent you are in cleaning your mouth, you canโ€™t access all the nooks and crannies of your mouth. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar in โ€œtrickyโ€ spots in your mouth.
Dental Cleaning best dentist near me -Procedure explained animated video

Refresh Your Smile with Professional Dental Cleaning!

Maintain a healthy, confident smile with thorough dental cleanings that remove plaque, prevent cavities, and leave your teeth feeling fresh and polished.

Call 386-244-9838

Book your appointment with our skilled dental team at Cooper Dental Group in Ormond Beach.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings and Exams

Can a dental cleaning help me detect other health issues?

Absolutely. During your dental exam, Dr. Perkins or Dr. Tow may spot signs of broader health concerns like diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer. Conditions like anemia or vitamin deficiencies can also leave clues inside your mouth. Because the mouth is connected to the rest of your body, problems that begin elsewhere can sometimes show up during a routine cleaning. This isย another reasonย why dental check-ups are about much more than just clean teeth.

Why do my gums sometimes bleed during a cleaning even if I brush daily?

Bleeding gums are usually a signal that inflammation is present, even if you’re brushing every day. Factors like poor flossing technique, plaque buildup under the gumline, hormonal changes, or even using aย toothbrush that’s too firmย can contribute. Dr. Perkins and Dr. Tow can evaluate your technique and recommend improvements, like switching to a soft-bristled brush or adjusting your flossing method, to help minimize bleeding and keep your gums healthy.

Is there a “best time” of day to schedule my dental cleaning?

It can vary depending on your lifestyle, but many patients prefer morning appointments when they are more relaxed and haven’t yet eaten meals that could introduce new plaque or stain-causing substances. Being well-rested can also make you less sensitive to the cleaning process. For others, late afternoon works better if they need time to prepare mentally.ย 

Is skipping X-rays during my exam okay if my teeth feel fine?

Even if you aren’t experiencing pain, X-rays are crucial for spotting issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. Hidden cavities, bone loss, impacted teeth, and infections can develop quietly.ย By taking regular X-rays, usually once a year or as needed, our team can diagnose issues early โ€” often before they require more extensive and costly treatment. X-rays are a preventive tool thatย protectsย your long-term oral health.

Will professional cleanings make my teeth permanently whiter?

Professional dentalย cleanings remove surface stains from coffee, tea, tobacco, and other staining agents, often leaving your teeth looking noticeably brighter.ย However,ย cleaning alone may not eliminate deeper discoloration caused by aging, medications, orย trauma.ย 

Can regular cleanings save me money in the long term?

Absolutely. Preventive dental care is one of the smartest financial investments you can make for your health. By attending regular cleanings and exams, you reduce your risk of needing crowns, root canals, extractions, implants, or other extensive dental work later. Early intervention typically means faster treatments, less discomfort, and significantly lower costsย over time.

Are there differences between the cleanings kids and adults receive?

Yes, children’s dental cleanings often include added preventive steps to protect growing teeth. In addition to cleaning, fluoride treatments and dental sealants mayย be appliedย toย help prevent cavities. Kids’ exams also focus on tracking tooth developmentย and early orthodontic issues. Adult cleanings, meanwhile, emphasize plaque and tartar removal, checking for signs of periodontal disease, and monitoring aging dental restorations.ย 

A dental examination aids in the early discovery of oral issues. The earlier we discover your dental problems, the easier and less costly it becomes. Want to reap the benefits of dental exams and cleanings in Ormond Beach, FL? Please dial 386-244-9838 to schedule an appointment with the Cooper Dental Group team.

Dr. Adam Tow, DMD

Adam Tow, DMD

Adam Tow, DMD, is a skilled General Dentist renowned for his expertise in dentoalveolar surgery, oral medicine, and prosthetics. A graduate of the Dental school at the University of Florida with high honors in research, he also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor there. He completed a General Practice Residency at Kings County Hospital, where he gained extensive experience in dental implants, orthodontics, and facial trauma.
Dr. Tow holds an MBA from Cornell University, and his work has been associated with many publications and patents. Committed to lifelong learning, he actively participates in advanced courses and professional societies, fostering trust and open communication with his patients.
Dr. Andrew M. Perkins, DDS

Andrew M. Perkins, DDS

Andrew M. Perkins, DDS, is known for his expertise and compassionate patient care. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from Florida Atlantic University and an Associate of Arts in Biological Sciences from Palm Beach State College. With a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and a Certificate of Public Health from Meharry Medical College, he combines scientific knowledge with artistic skills.
Dr. Perkinsโ€™ experience as a General Practice Dental Resident at the Veterans Affairs Dental Department honed his proficiency in diverse dental procedures, ensuring personalized care for each patient. His dedication to dentistry and strong communication skills make him a trusted authority in oral health.