Dental Exams and Cleanings in South Lake Union, Seattle
A Thorough, Same-Day Exam and Cleaning Close to Home
The Foundation of a Healthy Mouth
Most dental problems are far easier to treat when caught early. A small cavity is a quick filling; the same cavity left for a year can become a root canal and a crown. Gum disease in its earliest form is reversible with cleaning and home care; advanced gum disease requires more involved treatment.
Routine exams give Dr. Sabrina a clear picture of how your mouth is doing over time, and routine cleanings remove the hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing and flossing alone cannot. Together they are the single best investment you can make in your long-term dental health and your future dental costs.
What Dr. Sabrina Checks at Every Exam
- Visual and tactile examination of every tooth, looking for new decay, wear, cracks, or failing restorations
- Digital X-rays when needed (we follow ADA guidelines on frequency and use the lowest dose possible)
- Periodontal (gum) exam, including pocket depth measurements at six points around every tooth
- Oral cancer screening of the lips, tongue, palate, cheeks, throat, and lymph nodes
- Bite and jaw evaluation, including signs of grinding or TMJ-related wear
- Review of your existing dental work and how it is holding up
- Intraoral photos so you can see what we see
- Plain-language conversation about findings, priorities, and any treatment options
A Gentle, Thorough Cleaning
Your cleaning is performed by a licensed dental hygienist. We use modern ultrasonic and hand instruments to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline, then polish your teeth to remove surface stain. We finish with flossing, a fluoride application if you would like one, and home-care guidance personalized to what we found.
Types of cleanings we provide
- Routine prophylaxis (preventive cleaning) for patients with healthy gums
- Periodontal maintenance for patients who have been treated for gum disease and need more frequent visits
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) for patients with active gum disease, typically completed over one or two visits with local anesthetic for comfort
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need X-rays at every visit?
No. We follow ADA guidelines and take X-rays only when they are clinically needed, using the lowest dose required. Most healthy adults have a full set every three to five years and bitewing X-rays every one to two years.
Does insurance cover exams and cleanings?
Most PPO dental plans cover two cleanings and exams per year at 100 percent as preventive care. We verify your benefits before your visit and let you know what to expect.
What if I have not been to the dentist in years?
You are welcome here without judgment. Your first visit back is a comfortable exam, a clear conversation about what we find, and a plan built at a pace you are comfortable with. Sedation is available if you would like extra support.
Will my cleaning hurt?
For most patients, a routine cleaning is not painful. If you have sensitive teeth or sore gums, tell us before we start and we can adjust technique, use topical anesthetic, or schedule extra time. Patients who need a deep cleaning are numbed with local anesthetic so the visit is comfortable.
Do you see children and teens?
Yes. We see children and teenagers for routine cleanings and exams. For infants, toddlers, or children who would benefit from a pediatric specialist, we refer to trusted pediatric dentists in the area.
I have dental anxiety. Can you help?
Yes. Oral sedation is available for patients who would like extra support. Our team also specializes in working at your pace, explaining each step, and using gentle technique. Tell us when you book and we will plan your visit around your concerns.
Can I have my cleaning and exam done the same day?
Yes, in most cases. When your oral health allows, we complete the exam and cleaning during the same visit, including for new patients.
Same-Day Visits, Kids, and How Often to Come In
Get Your Exam and Cleaning Done in One Visit
We hold time in our schedule specifically for new patients. When your oral health allows, we complete your comprehensive exam and your cleaning during the same visit. That means one trip to South Lake Union instead of two, and you leave with a clear understanding of where you stand.
If we find that you would benefit from a deeper cleaning, periodontal therapy, or another approach, we will explain why and schedule the right kind of visit for your situation.
Cleanings for Kids and Teenagers
We welcome children and teens for routine cleanings and exams. Our team takes the time to introduce younger patients to dental care in a calm, friendly way, with explanations they can understand and a pace that respects how they are feeling that day.
For specialized care for infants and toddlers, or for children who would benefit from a pediatric specialist for behavioral or developmental reasons, we are glad to refer to trusted pediatric dentists in the area.
How Often Should I Get a Cleaning?
Most patients do well with a cleaning and exam every six months. Some patients with a history of gum disease, certain medical conditions, or specific risk factors benefit from being seen every three or four months. Dr. Sabrina will recommend a schedule that matches your mouth, not a blanket policy.
