Exams & Cleanings

Northside Family Dentistry

Exams & Cleanings In North O'Fallon, MO

Exams & Cleanings In Dardenne Prairie, MO

As Ben Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Preventive dentistry steps, including good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups can help reduce the future need for restorative dentistry. Dr. Logan recommends preventive dental check-ups at least every six months to stay on top of your dental health care needs.

The following services may take place at a preventive dental check-up:

 

  • Digital X-Rays to monitor areas of decay. The sooner decay is detecting, the easier and less expensive it is to remove.
  • Dental Examinations of your teeth, gums and oral cavity can detect areas of concern before they become a larger problem.
  • Dental Prophylaxis (Cleaning) done by a professional hygienist can remove areas of plaque build up and tartar that cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone.
  • Fluoride Treatments can help strengthen your teeth against the acid and plaque attacks they undergo regularly.
  • Dental Sealants in childhood can help to prevent cavities from forming while the teeth are sealed.
  • Oral Hygiene Instructions given by the hygienist or dentist can help you or your child to have a better understanding of ways to care for your teeth at home.

 

Maintaining good dental hygiene is an important aspect of living a healthy lifestyle. It is crucial to stay on top of any issues with the mouth early on when they are still manageable and easy to fix. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help keep problems at bay.

This includes going to the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam, brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sugary drinks, protecting your teeth from damage by wearing a protective guard and getting regular dental checks.

Examples of things we look for at your regular exams and cleanings are:

  • Cavities
  • Tooth wear
  • Cracks in teeth
  • Oral cancer
  • Gum recession
  • Inflammation of the gums
  • Early signs of gum disease

 

These are all examples of problems of the mouth that could require more involved treatment, and cause greater damage if left untreated for an extended period of time. This is why it is important to receive regular dental exams and cleanings. We understand that not everybody likes going to the dentist, but we promise to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

In accordance with the American Dental Association, we recommend a dental exam twice a year. Depending on the health of your gums, we recommend getting cleanings at least twice a year, sometimes more. 

Did you know that your mouth can be your best health indicator? If you’re experiencing any discomfort, it could be an indication of a bigger problem. Early diagnosis of oral problems may prevent serious, more complicated issues down the road. Our goal is to provide you with the dental services that suit your needs and budget. We offer free consultations for potential patients, so contact us today to schedule your appointment

main logo Nortside

Need To Schedule OR Have A Question?

Call 636-431-8600 or send a message!

Northside Family Dentistry

What happens during a teeth cleaning?

A teeth cleaning is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. The dentist or dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar by using a special tool called a scaler. The dentist or dental hygienist will also polish your teeth to remove any stains, and they may use an electric toothbrush to clean the surfaces of your teeth.

The dentist or dental hygienist will also examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other problems. If necessary, they may take x-rays to see if there are any problems in the roots of your teeth that cannot be seen with a visual examination.

Dental exams are one of the most important aspects of dental care. They allow dentists to determine if there are any irregularities in the mouth and provide a diagnosis. The teeth and gums are closely examined and cleaned and X-rays may be taken to identify possible problems.

Almost half of all adults are suffering from gum disease, but there are many more people without any symptoms who are also unknowingly suffering from it.

Gum disease is a common problem affecting almost half of the adult population. It’s easy to overlook because it often doesn’t have any specific symptoms, but gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other more serious health complications if left untreated.

It’s important to visit your dentist regularly to get your teeth cleaned and checked. Regular dental checkups are the best way to catch gum disease before it’s too late. Early detection can save you from more expensive dental treatments later on.

The Swerv3 Ultrasonic Cleaner

The Swerv3 ultrasonic cleaner is a state of the art instrument that has proved to be an extremely successful tool in removing tartar from both above and below the gumline. Instead of scaling your teeth with bulky metal hand scalers, the Swerv3 ultrasonic cleaner uses oscillating sound waves to gently vibrate the tartar away from your teeth. 

The Swerv3 unit is so gentle that it can even be used to administer deep cleaning and gum therapy, many times without the need for anesthetic. Having your teeth cleaned with the Swerv3 unit is a safe, effective, and painless alternative to traditional cleaning methods. Ask about the ultrasonic cleaner the next time that you are due for your general cleaning.

Preventing Gum Disease With Exams & Cleanings

The reason for the high number of people who suffer from gum disease and don’t know they do is because, more often than not, there are no symptoms.

One of the hidden dangers of gum disease is that it doesn’t always present symptoms. As a result, many people don’t get diagnosed. But by doing simple things like brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily & getting yearly dental checkups, it’s possible to prevent this silent killer.

Gum disease is a process of inflammation and infection of the gums that causes detachment of the gum from the teeth. The inflammation and infection as a result of the disease can cause severe pain, tooth loss, and even toothaches.

While tooth loss is often a slow progression, it can happen much quicker than you might think. The progression of this disease can take years but it’s important to make sure that your teeth and mouth are healthy as early in life as possible in order to stave off any future problems.

There are a few things you can do to avoid tooth loss. For instance, brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time can help prevent plaque buildup and cavities. You should also visit your dentist once every six months for a checkup to make sure everything is going well.

Gum Disease is a condition that must be identified and diagnosed by a dentist, and it is critical to undergo regular evaluations to have a normal routine of prevention. This can be done through regular dental cleanings and good home care.

Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease and diabetes. It must be identified and diagnosed by a dentist, and it is important to get evaluated regularly and have a normal routine of prevention.

If you are diagnosed with gum disease, we recommend a certain type and frequency of dental cleanings in accordance with the American Dental Association. We will also discuss lifestyle changes that can prevent further progression of the disease.

This disease is manageable with the right steps, and we would love to help you eliminate it.

Nitrous During Your Cleaning

With modern medications and techniques, anxiety can be easily managed in a dental setting.  If you want sedation, but do not want to arrange a driver, you can have the mild sedative of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to allow relaxation during your visit.

The sooner you come to see us, the sooner you will know the health status of your mouth, and can establish regular visits for yourself. We can’t wait to meet you!

What Our Patients Are Saying

EXCELLENT
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Based on 248 reviews
Posted on Google Google
justmad718 profile picture
justmad718
27 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Everyone at Northside Family Dentistry is so nice and helpful. I would gladly recommend to anyone!!
Posted on Google Google
Mary Novak profile picture
Mary Novak
27 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I highly recommend Northside Family Dentistry for your dental health. Friendly, professional staff with clean exam and reception areas.
Posted on Google Google
JAMES KAIMANN profile picture
JAMES KAIMANN
26 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
This is an outstanding dental office! The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and totally professional. The technicians are fantastic and the Doctor is 1st class. This office is located right off Main Street on Highway P in O'Fallon Missouri. Just a little bit north of Highway 70.
Posted on Google Google
Brant Wilson profile picture
Brant Wilson
26 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great dentist and a wonderful friendly staff !
Posted on Google Google
Tammy Delgado profile picture
Tammy Delgado
21 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I absolutely love everything about Northside Family Dentistry! All of the hygienist are funny, caring, and really listen when you tell them what is going on prior to seeing the dentist himself. I love the fact that he is so honest and never tries to push you into any work that does not need to be done!
Posted on Google Google
Mack MILLER profile picture
Mack MILLER
21 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
My app. went very well and the dentist saved me money by not doing a crown that he didn't think I needed .
Posted on Google Google
RE profile picture
RE
19 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Everyone is very nice and professional glad I started going here.
Posted on Google Google
Jennifer Ford profile picture
Jennifer Ford
13 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very kind! Personable! I was able to get an appointment quickly! Overall great experience!
Posted on Google Google
walter deeken profile picture
walter deeken
8 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Everyone was very friendly and accommodating. When other dentists were booking 3+ months out, they gave me an appointment 1 month out and then moved me up 2 weeks. Dental hygienist did an outstanding job and was very professional.
Posted on Google Google
Vincent Nonya profile picture
Vincent Nonya
8 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Great staff, on time appointments.
Posted on Google Google
stef milich profile picture
stef milich
5 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
2 year customer. They’re amazing!
Posted on Google Google
cristinamaewilson profile picture
cristinamaewilson
4 October 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very professional and polite. Answered all me questions. No pain was felt!!
Posted on Google Google
kayla Cunningham profile picture
kayla Cunningham
30 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
The best dentist I have ever been too. The whole staff is amazing. I highly recommend! They are great with kids as well!
Posted on Google Google
Pam Batchelor profile picture
Pam Batchelor
30 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Katie did a great job cleaning my teeth. I have had an irrational fear of the dentist most of my life but since coming to Northside I have really no anxiety.
Posted on Google Google
Jessica Tocco profile picture
Jessica Tocco
30 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
We love Northside for our whole family - always very professional and responsive to issues. So happy we found a dental home.
Posted on Google Google
C Kelts profile picture
C Kelts
30 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
All went well very polite, professional and my teeth feel great :)
Posted on Google Google
Brian B profile picture
Brian B
25 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Always an excellent experience. Some dentist offices try to get you to pay for unnecessary dental work. Northside gets you in and out with no unnecessary "upsells."
Posted on Google Google
David Brandt profile picture
David Brandt
18 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very personable and accommodating staff. Highly recommend them.
Posted on Google Google
John Gremard profile picture
John Gremard
17 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
It has been a few years since I have been to the Dentist. Katie was very friendly and professional. Dr.Hoff was also nice and professional. Overall it was a very pleasant experience!!
Posted on Google Google
Avery Torbett profile picture
Avery Torbett
16 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Dr. Ryan Hough and his team are the definition of perfection. I have an extremely difficult time, going to the dentist and have been shamed by previous dentist when I was a kid which really turned me off from going at all. Dr. Hough is so kind and understanding. He understands that it’s hard for some people and his literal response is “that’s okay, I’m happy you’re here now” and here’s what we can do to help you. I followed him from his previous practice and he’s literally the only dentist I trust. 10/10!
Posted on Google Google
Maureen Feeherty profile picture
Maureen Feeherty
10 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Very gentle and great service. Very nice staff. Would recommend this dentistry to everyone I know.
Posted on Google Google
Camaro Red profile picture
Camaro Red
10 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
I has an emergency with a broken tooth.and had an appointment right away….Thank-You.Everyone was very nice a helpful.And they all laughed at all my old stale jokes.
Posted on Google Google
Tiffany Northcutt profile picture
Tiffany Northcutt
10 September 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
Kind and courteous staff! First visit and I already am glad I chose Northside.