Checkups and cleanings
A checkup is Dr. Urbina looking at your teeth, gums and bite and telling you what she sees. A cleaning removes plaque and hardened tartar from your teeth and from just under the gumline. Both are for anyone who wants to keep their teeth, including people who haven't been in for a while.
What happens
Plan on one visit of 45 minutes to an hour.
- 01
Step 1: We check your plan
Before the visit Robin checks your benefits and tells you what your plan says it covers.
- 02
Step 2: The cleaning
Danita or Dr. Urbina cleans with hand tools and an ultrasonic scaler.
- 03
Step 3: The checkup
Dr. Urbina looks at your teeth, gums and bite and shows you what she finds.
- 04
Step 4: X-rays, if needed
She decides, and tells you why. They aren't taken at every visit.
If your gums need more than a routine cleaning, she may suggest a deeper cleaning over two visits.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
A routine cleaning rarely needs numbing. If your gums are tender we can use a numbing gel, or a local anesthetic if you'd like it. Most people feel pressure and some tenderness. Raise a hand and we stop.
If you wait
Plaque that stays on your teeth hardens into tartar, which brushing can't remove, and gums that bleed can get worse. You can choose to come less often or skip X-rays; Dr. Urbina will tell you what she would watch for.
Risks and after-care
Gums may be sore or bleed a little for a day, and teeth can feel sensitive to cold. Rinse with warm salt water. Call us if soreness lasts more than a few days or you notice swelling.
How it's billed
Routine visits are usually billed to a PPO plan, and we tell you your share before you come. Anything else is quoted in writing.
How fees work
Questions about checkups
How often should I come in?
Dr. Urbina decides from your checkup. Some people come twice a year, some more often, some less.
Will my plan pay for it?
Most dental plans list checkups and cleanings, with limits on how often. We check yours and tell you before the visit.
What is a deep cleaning?
A longer cleaning of the tooth roots under the gums, usually over two visits, for gums that have pulled away. She will show you why she suggests it.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Luz Urbina, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Texas.