During standard check-up exams or cleanings, we will provide all of the information you need to make more informed decisions about maintaining your oral health. Every appointment is treated as a personal consultation to identify and prevent serious dental problems.

Dental Exams

Dr. Festa will perform a comprehensive dental exam during your initial visit. Regular check-up exams will always include the following:

• Oral cancer screening: Check every patient’s face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, oral tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.


• Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.


• Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.


• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc. to ensure proper function.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Your cleaning appointments will include a dental exam and the following:

• Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for some time and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.


• Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!


• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.