Plano Dentists at Imagecare Dental

Question:  “I can’t help but wondering why it is that whenever I have a dental appointment I am hurried through the cleaning and check-up process.  Is twenty to thirty minutes an adequate amount of time for a thorough cleaning and assessment to be performed?”

Answer:  Frequently, patients view their periodic dental check-up as “just a cleaning.” The truth of the matter is that this appointment is extremely important and crucial in maintaining one’s oral health.  Depending upon a variety of factors, the time this process takes can vary significantly from patient to patient.

At our dental office the majority of adult cleanings take approximately one hour.  The actual time can differ somewhat because some patients require a little more or less time depending on the patient’s need.  Most importantly is that each patient receives individualized treatment for their special oral health needs and concerns. 

It’s especially important that patient treatment be done in a relaxed and methodical way. This way the patient feels well taken care of and ensures that all aspects of their visit are complete and thorough.  Most appointments feature an oral exam, radiographs (x-rays), scaling the teeth, polishing the teeth and a fluoride treatment.  Especially important is our staff’s commitment to patient education, including ample time to answer any questions.

Oral exams focus on individual tooth evaluation that allows us to assess the condition of each tooth.  The dentist will also check patients’ periodontal (gum and bone) health as well as look for any signs of oral cancer or other conditions that may require medical attention.  This comprehensive assessment is essential for a thorough dental appointment.

Our dental hygienists are not only highly trained but they understand the need to be both thorough and gentle in their approach to cleaning our patients’ teeth.  The process of scaling removes any tartar (hard deposits) from teeth.  Finally, the polishing of the teeth removes any residual plaque as well as smoothing the tooth surface.

Dental hygienists are up-to-date on the newest protocols necessary to keep and promote good oral health in our patients.  They demonstrate competence and a willingness to share helpful information with patients as well as instructing them on their crucial role in maintaining good oral health.  Our hygienists also take time to address patients’ individual areas of concern and demonstrate to them any measures that need to be taken outside the office.

Because each dental practice is different, and may employ a number of protocols, it is imperative that patients feel comfortable with the care they receive.  If you suspect that your dental team is hurrying you though your treatment and you believe that your questions are not being thoroughly addressed, you should bring your concerns up with them. 

You deserve excellent dental care and each dental appointment is vital to both your oral and overall health.  Your time at your dentist is more than just a routine cleaning.  It is an opportunity to have your oral condition assessed and thoroughly explained to you.  All your questions should be answered and of course, your teeth should be well cleaned.  You and your dental team should never underestimate the importance of your appointment. “There’s no such thing as a routine cleaning.”

Dr. Thompson maintains his private dental practice  (Imagecare Dental) in Plano, TX. For more information on this or any other dental topic, please visit: www.imagecaredental.com .  If you have questions for Dr. Thompson, please send an e-mail to:   This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or mail him a 6841 Coit Rd, Plano, TX 75024

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