Dental Cleanings & Exams
Preventive dentistry is the foundation of a healthier, brighter smile. Regular dental cleanings and checkups help keep your natural teeth beautiful, healthy, and protected for the long term.
The Best Dentistry Is The Dentistry You Never Need
At Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics, led by Dr. Ken Collins and Dr. Marnie Collins, preventive dentistry is our favorite kind of dentistry. As much as we love restoring smiles, we are even happier when we can help keep your natural teeth looking beautiful and healthy for life.
Regular dental cleanings and checkups allow our team to remove buildup, monitor your gums, detect small issues early, and help you avoid more stressful dental problems later.
A Cleaning Visit That Feels Clear, Calm, And Thorough
Your cleaning appointment is designed to keep your smile healthy while giving our team a clear view of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
Keep Your Smile Healthy Between Visits
Your home routine is what protects the work we do during your professional cleaning. Small daily habits make a major difference in gum health, cavity prevention, and breath freshness.
Prevention Is A Whole-Health Investment
Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body. Gum inflammation, untreated infection, and heavy bacterial buildup can affect comfort, confidence, nutrition, and overall wellness. Regular cleanings help us prevent disease or catch it early when care is simpler.
Dr. Ken Collins & Dr. Marnie Collins
Dr. Ken Collins and Dr. Marnie Collins bring over 25 years of dental experience to Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics. Their preventive approach is simple: keep visits comfortable, catch concerns early, and help patients protect their natural smiles for as long as possible.
Answers Before Your Visit
These answers help patients understand how often cleanings are needed, what happens during an appointment, and how to care for teeth between visits.
How often do I need professional dental cleanings?
Many patients benefit from dental cleanings twice per year, but some people need more frequent visits depending on gum health, tartar buildup, medical history, restorations, or risk for decay. Your dentist or hygienist will recommend the right interval for you.
What should I expect during my first visit?
Your first visit may include a review of your health history, digital X-rays, a comprehensive dental exam, gum evaluation, and a cleaning plan. It is also a good time to discuss concerns, goals, sensitivity, and your home-care routine.
What are signs I need a cleaning sooner?
Bleeding or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, visible tartar, tooth sensitivity, gum tenderness, or a rough feeling on the teeth can all be signs that you should schedule a cleaning or checkup sooner.
Will a dental cleaning whiten my teeth?
A cleaning can remove surface stains and tartar, which may make teeth look brighter. For deeper discoloration or a more dramatic shade change, professional teeth whitening may be recommended.
How long does a teeth cleaning appointment take?
A typical cleaning often takes about 45 minutes to one hour. First-time visits, patients with heavy tartar buildup, or patients needing periodontal therapy may require more time.
Are cleanings safe with implants, crowns, or bridges?
Yes. Dental cleanings are important for patients with implants, crowns, and bridges. Hygienists use appropriate tools and techniques to clean around restorations while protecting the gums and supporting teeth.
Can pregnant women get dental cleanings?
Yes. Dental cleanings are generally safe during pregnancy and can be especially important because hormonal changes may increase the risk of gum inflammation. Please tell the team if you are pregnant so your visit can be adjusted for comfort.
How soon after a cleaning can I eat or drink?
You can usually eat and drink right after a cleaning. If fluoride is applied, you may be asked to wait about 30 minutes before eating or drinking so the fluoride has time to absorb.
How does smoking or vaping affect dental cleanings?
Smoking and vaping can contribute to staining, bad breath, gum disease, and heavier buildup. Regular cleanings help monitor these effects, but quitting nicotine products provides the best protection for oral health.
What toothbrush and toothpaste should I use?
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Look for products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and ask your dentist or hygienist which toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, water flosser, or mouth rinse is best for your needs.
Credible Preventive Dentistry Education
Is It Time For Your Next Dental Cleaning?
Schedule a dental cleaning and exam with Collins Dentistry & Aesthetics in Spokane or Spokane Valley and let our team help you protect your smile before problems get bigger.