A routine cleaning isn't just polishing — our Teeth Cleaning And Checkup visits include gum-pocket measurements, bitewing X-rays when due, and an oral cancer screening most patients don't realize is part of the standard exam.
Every Smile Center Dentistry office offering Teeth Cleaning And Checkup is held to the same four standards, verified before the office ever joins our network.
Gum-pocket depth is measured and recorded at every visit, not just when something already looks wrong.
X-rays are taken on a schedule appropriate to your cavity risk and history, not automatically every single visit.
A visual and physical oral cancer screening is part of every standard checkup, not a separate add-on.
Your chart tracks pocket depths, staining, and wear patterns over time, not just a single snapshot.
Every option below is available under the same upfront-pricing standard, whichever specific service ends up fitting your case.
Plaque and tartar buildup, especially below the gumline, is removed with hand instruments and an ultrasonic scaler. Most patients need this every six months, though some benefit from more frequent visits.
Gum-pocket depths are measured at multiple points around each tooth and recorded to track changes over time. Deeper pockets may indicate the need for a more thorough deep cleaning.
Frequency is based on your individual cavity risk, not a blanket annual rule. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than older film technology.
A visual and tactile exam of the mouth, tongue, and throat checks for unusual lesions, lumps, or discoloration. Screening is included in every standard checkup, no separate scheduling needed.
A fluoride application strengthens enamel and helps prevent early decay, especially useful for higher-risk patients. Both children and adults with higher cavity risk benefit from this.
This trend tracking catches gradual changes that a single visit alone might miss. Ask to see how your numbers have trended if you're curious.
No mystery about what happens between calling us and walking out with the problem addressed.
Schedule a routine cleaning and checkup, typically available within the same week.
Screening results are recorded and compared to your prior visit.
Any areas of concern are flagged and explained clearly.
You'll leave with a clear plan — whether that's just your next six-month visit or something that needs closer attention.
These are unedited, from patients who've actually been through Teeth Cleaning And Checkup treatment with us in the past year.
“They caught a gum-pocket change I wouldn't have noticed myself and adjusted my cleaning schedule before it became a real problem.”
“Appreciated that they didn't just take X-rays automatically every visit — they explained why I didn't need one this time.”
“The oral cancer screening takes two minutes and honestly gives me peace of mind every single visit.”
“They showed me how my numbers had trended over the past two years, which made the recommendation to floss more actually land.”
“Fastest, most thorough cleaning I've had in years, and they explained every step without me having to ask.”
Straight answers to what people actually want to know before committing to Teeth Cleaning And Checkup.
Most patients benefit from a cleaning every six months, though some need more frequent visits based on gum health.
No — frequency depends on your individual cavity risk and history, and we'll explain the reasoning each time.
It measures gum-pocket depth around each tooth to catch early gum disease before it progresses.
Yes, a visual and physical screening is included in every standard checkup, not billed as a separate service.
Let the hygienist know about sensitivity upfront so the visit can be adjusted accordingly.
Yes, we compare each visit's findings — pocket depths, staining, wear — against your prior records.
If you're unsure whether your part of Des Moines is covered, a quick call settles it faster than searching online.
Our Teeth Cleaning And Checkup service is available to patients throughout Des Moines, with same-week scheduling for routine visits. New patients are welcome — we'll build your baseline chart at the first visit.
Call now and our scheduling team will find the nearest available slot for your situation.
Call +1-866-227-2801
