Dental Cleanings
No matter your age or the current state of your smile, it’s important to see a family dentist every six months for a professional cleaning. As part of our comprehensive dental care in Wilmington, DE, we combine thorough preventive treatments with a welcoming environment to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning & Exam
When you arrive for your appointment, you’ll be welcomed by our friendly team before being guided to the treatment room for your teeth cleaning and exam. Your cleaning begins with the gentle removal of plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria from your teeth and gumline. We use professional instruments to clean areas that are difficult to reach with brushing and flossing at home.
After your teeth are polished, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and reduce your risk of future cavities. Your dentist will then perform a comprehensive exam, checking your teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral health. Digital x-rays may be taken if needed to detect hidden issues.
We’ll also review your home care routine, answer any questions you have, and discuss any recommended next steps. Our goal is to make sure you leave your visit with a healthier smile and confidence in your dental care.
Periodontal Care
At our Wilmington, Delaware family dentists don’t just clean your teeth—we also carefully evaluate your gums. If we see signs of gingivitis or gum disease, we’ll provide deeper cleaning and sterilization to protect your oral health.
Warning signs include swollen, red, or tender gums. If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to gum recession, loose teeth, or even tooth loss. Beyond your mouth, gum disease has been linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. That’s why treating gum disease early is so important.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Each year, about 54,000 people are diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer. Sadly, this cancer often has a high mortality rate because it isn’t detected early enough. That’s why our Wilmington, Delaware dental office includes oral cancer screenings as a standard part of every exam.
During the screening, we look for swelling, small sores, lesions, discoloration, or other abnormalities. If we notice anything suspicious, we may recommend further testing by sending a sample to a lab. Regular screenings greatly increase the chances of detecting cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
Advanced Technology
At our Wilmington, Delaware dental office, Dr. Goodling is proud to use advanced dental technology to make your visits easier, safer, and more comfortable.
We use digital x-rays to capture clear images of your teeth with minimal radiation exposure. Intraoral cameras allow us to show you detailed, color images of your mouth so you can better understand your oral health. For a more comprehensive view, our panoramic x-ray equipment captures your entire mouth, jaw, and sinuses—an especially valuable tool when evaluating complex concerns or planning your preventive care, such as teeth cleanings.
Your Dentist in Wilmington, Delaware
If you’re looking for a family dentist who combines skill, compassion, and advanced technology, schedule your visit with our Wilmington, Delaware dental office. We’ll make sure you feel comfortable, cared for, and confident in your smile.
Call us today at (302) 994-0979 to schedule your cleaning and exam. We look forward to helping you maintain a lifetime of healthy smiles.
