Dental Cleanings & Exams in Jackson, TN
Regular dental cleanings and exams are the foundation of a healthy smile — and at McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we make every visit a positive, comfortable experience. Our preventive approach helps you avoid cavities, gum disease, and costly restorative treatment by keeping your teeth and gums in their best possible condition. Call us at (731) 424-2651 or contact us to schedule your appointment.
Why Routine Cleanings and Exams Matter
Even the most dedicated at-home oral hygiene routine has its limits. Plaque accumulates in areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush and floss, and any plaque that is not removed hardens within 24 to 72 hours into tartar — a calcified deposit that can only be removed with professional instruments. Left in place, tartar harbors bacteria that irritate the gum tissue, contribute to decay, and can lead to periodontal disease.
Beyond cleaning, routine exams give our dentists the opportunity to evaluate the overall condition of your teeth, gums, and jaw — catching early signs of cavities, gum disease, bite problems, and other conditions before they develop into larger, more expensive issues. Early intervention is almost always simpler, faster, and more affordable than treating problems that have been allowed to progress.
What Happens During Your Visit at McLemore & McLemore, DDS
Your cleaning and exam appointment at McLemore & McLemore, DDS is a comprehensive experience. We begin with a visual assessment of your teeth and gum tissue, using a small mirror to check for signs of inflammation, decay, or other concerns. If anything warrants a closer look, our dentist will evaluate it and discuss findings and options with you.
Your professional cleaning is performed by one of our skilled hygienists using a combination of hand scaling instruments and ultrasonic tools to remove plaque and tartar from all surfaces of your teeth, including along and just below the gumline. Your teeth are then polished to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth and refreshed. We also perform a periodontal assessment — measuring the pockets between your teeth and gums — to monitor for any signs of developing gum disease.
Digital X-rays are taken periodically to reveal what cannot be seen visually, including early cavities forming between teeth, bone levels, root structure, and developing issues in the jaw. We may also perform an oral cancer screening as part of your exam to check for any abnormal tissue changes.
Before you leave, our team will review your oral health status with you, answer any questions, and provide personalized recommendations for your home care routine. We also accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options — because consistent preventive care should always be accessible. Contact McLemore & McLemore, DDS in Jackson, TN at (731) 424-2651 to book your next visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings & Exams
How often should I have a dental cleaning and exam?
Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with a higher risk of decay, active gum disease, or a history of dental problems may benefit from more frequent visits — every three to four months. Our team at McLemore & McLemore, DDS will recommend the schedule that is right for your individual oral health needs.
What is included in a routine dental exam?
A comprehensive exam at McLemore & McLemore, DDS includes a visual inspection of the teeth and gum tissue, periodontal probing to assess gum pocket depths, review of digital X-rays, evaluation of the bite and jaw, and an oral cancer screening. If any concerns are identified, your dentist will discuss next steps and treatment options with you.
Is a professional cleaning necessary if I brush and floss every day?
Yes. Even excellent brushers and flossers cannot remove all plaque from every surface of the teeth, and any plaque that is missed hardens into tartar. Only professional instruments can safely remove tartar. Regular cleanings are essential regardless of your at-home hygiene habits.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) is designed for patients with generally healthy gums and focuses on removing plaque and tartar above and at the gumline. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes below the gumline to treat active gum disease where pockets have formed. The type of cleaning you need is determined by the health of your gums.
Do cleanings hurt?
Most patients find professional cleanings comfortable. Some mild sensitivity during or after the cleaning is possible, particularly if it has been a while since your last visit or if your gums are inflamed. If you experience discomfort, let our hygienist know and we will adjust our approach.
At what age should children start getting dental cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends that children have their first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth erupting. Regular cleanings and exams from an early age establish healthy habits and allow us to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and jaw. At McLemore & McLemore, DDS, we welcome patients of all ages.
How do I schedule a cleaning and exam at McLemore & McLemore, DDS?
Call us at (731) 424-2651 or visit our contact page to book your appointment in Jackson, TN. We accept new patients and look forward to becoming your dental home in Jackson, TN.
