Family Dentistry Services

Dental Exams & Cleanings

Preventative care and maintenance is the first way to protect your smile AND your health. We strive to make your visit with us easy and stress-free every time.

During cleanings your dentist will:

  • Remove tartar build-up on your teeth
  • Remove plaque
  • Perform teeth polishing to help remove light surface stains and prevent plaque from easily reattaching to your teeth

Regular professional dental cleanings and exams are essential for attaining a healthy mouth.

Your dentist can help clean surfaces of your teeth that you may have missed during brushing and flossing.

During your appointment, he or she will also:

  • Evaluate your overall health and oral hygiene
  • Check your bite and jaw for any problems
  • Evaluate your risk of tooth decay and gum or bone disease
  • Evaluate existing tooth restorations
  • Screen for oral cancer
  • Take dental x-rays if necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

We recommend scheduling dental cleanings and exams every six months for optimal oral health. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits based on your specific needs.

Do you accept my insurance?

We work with a wide variety of dental insurance providers. Please contact our office or visit our Insurance & Payment page for a full list of accepted plans.

What should I expect during my first visit?

Your first visit typically includes a comprehensive exam, X-rays, and a discussion about your dental health goals. This helps us create a personalized treatment plan for you.

How often should I brush my teeth, and what is the proper technique?

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially before bed, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and an ADA-approved toothpaste. For the best results:

  • Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
  • Use gentle, circular motions to brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of each tooth.
  • Don’t forget to brush the inside of your front teeth and your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Electric toothbrushes are also recommended as they can efficiently remove plaque by simply guiding the brush while it works on multiple teeth at a time.

How often should I floss, and what is the correct way to do it?

You should floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Follow these steps for effective flossing:

  • Use about 12-16 inches of dental floss, wrapping it around your middle fingers, with 2 inches of floss between them.
  • Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a sawing motion.
  • Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth, sliding it up and down to clean the side of each tooth and below the gumline.

If you find regular floss difficult to use, floss holders are a helpful alternative.

How often should I schedule dental cleanings and exams?

It is generally recommended to schedule dental cleanings and exams every six months. Regular visits help prevent common issues like cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. They also allow your dentist to catch potential problems early. However, depending on your oral health, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits. Always follow your dentist’s advice based on your individual needs.

Effective, reliable treatments for patients of all ages.

No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and every member of your family and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.

Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Petrie, Storer and Associates, D.D.S. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Chicago.

Complete Family Oral Care Services

Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to serving patients of all ages, from children to seniors, and providing top-notch oral health care for the entire family. We strive to make dental visits easy and stress-free for you and your loved ones. Our family-friendly atmosphere ensures that every member of your household feels comfortable and at ease during their dental appointments.

From routine check-ups and cleanings to preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we prioritize preventive care to maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Should any dental concerns arise, our skilled dentists are equipped to deliver a wide range of services, including restorative treatments, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry.

First time visiting?

First time visiting?

Visit the Patient Center to learn what to expect from your first visit, forms, financial policies, and frequently asked questions!

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Chicago

  • Chicago
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