Comprehensive Dental Care for a Healthy Smile with Exams and Cleanings at Espire Dental Norman

Regular dental exams and cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy smile and preventing dental issues before they become serious problems. At Espire Dental Norman, our expert team—led by Dr. Jim Spurgeon and Dr. Brett Leemaster—is dedicated to providing thorough, gentle care for patients of all ages. Whether it’s time for your routine checkup or you need a more in-depth evaluation, Dr. Jim and Dr. Brett are here to ensure that your oral health is in excellent condition. Conveniently located near I-35 and W Robinson Street, we proudly serve the Norman, OK community with personalized, high-quality dental care.

What to Expect During Your Dental Cleaning and Exam

At Espire Dental Norman, we make your exam and cleaning appointments comfortable and comprehensive, ensuring that every aspect of your oral health is addressed.

Thorough Dental Exam
During your exam, Dr. Jim Spurgeon or Dr. Brett Leemaster will carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. This includes:
- Checking for Cavities: Using advanced diagnostic tools, we’ll check for tooth decay and cavities that might not be visible to the naked eye.
- Gum Health Assessment: Your gums play a critical role in your oral health. We’ll measure the depth of the gum pockets around your teeth to detect any signs of gum disease.
- Oral Cancer Screening: Early detection of oral cancer can save lives. Our team will examine your lips, tongue, throat, and other soft tissues for any abnormalities.
- Digital X-rays: If necessary, we’ll take digital X-rays to get a clear picture of what’s happening beneath the surface. This helps us identify issues like bone loss, impacted teeth, or infections.
Professional Cleaning
After your exam, one of our skilled dental hygienists will perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains. Even with excellent brushing and flossing habits, these substances can build up in hard-to-reach areas, leading to cavities and gum disease.
- Scaling: We’ll remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and around the gumline using specialized tools.
- Polishing: After scaling, your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and leave your smile feeling fresh and clean.
- Fluoride Treatment: (If needed) fluoride strengthens your teeth and helps protect against decay. We may recommend a fluoride treatment, especially for children or patients prone to cavities.

Why Regular Cleanings and Exams Are Essential

Routine dental exams and cleanings are the foundation of good oral health. These appointments help to:

Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease: Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone can’t reach, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Detect Issues Early: During your exam, Dr. Jim and Dr. Brett will check for early signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of more serious complications.
Improve Overall Health: Your oral health is closely connected to your overall health. Regular dental visits can help prevent systemic issues, such as heart disease or diabetes, linked to gum disease.

How long does a dental exam and cleaning take?

A typical exam and cleaning appointment lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. It may take a little longer if you need X-rays or other diagnostics, but we always strive to make your visit efficient and comfortable.

Are dental cleanings painful?

No, dental cleanings are generally not painful. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let us know. We can adjust our technique and use numbing agents or sedation options, especially if you feel anxious during dental visits.

How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend visiting us every six months for routine exams and cleanings. However, if you have certain conditions like gum disease, Dr. Jim or Dr. Brett may recommend more frequent visits to maintain your oral health.

What should I do between cleanings to maintain my oral health?

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash can help maintain your oral health between visits. Regular cleanings are essential, but your at-home care plays a significant role in keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

Do you take X-rays during every exam?

We typically recommend X-rays once a year or as needed to check for hidden issues like decay, bone loss, or impacted teeth. However, if you’re experiencing pain or other symptoms, we may take X-rays during any exam to help with diagnosis.

Are dental exams and cleanings covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans cover routine exams and cleanings twice a year. Our team will help you understand your coverage and maximize your benefits. If you don’t have insurance, we offer affordable payment options and financing.

Schedule Your Dental Exam and Cleaning Today at Espire Dental Norman

Don’t wait until a dental issue becomes serious—stay on top of your oral health with regular dental exams and cleanings at Espire Dental Norman. With the combined expertise of Dr. Jim Spurgeon and Dr. Brett Leemaster, you can trust that your smile is in excellent hands. Call us today at (405) 364-7385 to schedule your appointment, or visit our office near Sooner Mall for comprehensive, compassionate care.

Dental Exams & Cleanings