Teeth Cleaning & Dental Checkups in Morton Grove

Arely, dental hygienist at ProCare Family Dental in Morton Grove, IL, performing a professional teeth cleaning on a patient with before and after plaque removal results shown below.

Dental hygienist Arely performs a professional dental cleaning, while before-and-after images demonstrate the removal of plaque and tartar buildup.

❇️ Michael’s Personal Experience with Our Hygienist

“I’ve been coming here for many years. I highly recommend Arely for cleanings and gum treatment. Dr. Ganios and Dr. Danos are excellent, and the entire team is friendly and professional.”
— Michael, Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Why Routine Dental Cleanings Matter

Benefits of Biannual Dental Visits

Regular dental cleanings and checkups are essential for:

  • Healthier gums and stronger teeth

  • Early detection of cavities and gum disease

  • Oral cancer screening and disease prevention

  • Fresh breath and a cleaner smile

  • Lower risk of systemic issues like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes

“Gum disease has been linked to serious health conditions—including heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and more. Prevention starts here in Morton Grove.”
— Dr. Penelope Danos

► Watch the video on Oral Hygiene.

 

What to Expect at Your First Dental Checkup

A woman receiving a dental check up after her teeth cleaning

At ProCare Family Dental in Morton Grove, we want every new patient to feel informed and comfortable during their first visit. Our comprehensive dental checkups help us understand your oral health and create a personalized care plan.

Your first appointment typically lasts around 45–60 minutes and includes a complete dental exam, professional cleaning, and time to discuss your dental goals with our team.

Step 1: Medical & Dental History Review

Your hygienist will begin by reviewing your medical and dental history, including:

  • Chronic health conditions
  • Medications
  • Past dental treatments

This information helps us tailor your care, especially if certain conditions (like diabetes or heart disease) may impact your oral health.

Step 2: Digital Dental X-Rays

We take digital X-rays to get a clear, detailed view of your teeth and bone structure. These images allow us to:

  • Detect cavities between teeth
  • Examine bone loss from gum disease
  • Identify impacted teeth or root issues

Already had X-rays in the last 12 months? You can have them emailed to us in advance.

Step 3: Oral Cancer Screening & Dental Exam

Next, we’ll perform an oral cancer screening and a full dental exam. This includes:

  • Checking for lesions or signs of oral cancer
  • Screening for conditions linked to systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease)
  • Examining each tooth for decay, damage, or wear

Step 4: Gum Evaluation & Teeth Cleaning

Our hygienist will check your gum health using a periodontal probe to measure pocket depth around each tooth.

  • If your gums are healthy, we’ll proceed with your professional dental cleaning to remove plaque, tartar, and stains.
  • If periodontal disease is present, we’ll schedule a separate deep-cleaning or scaling/root-planing visit.

Step 5: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

Depending on your oral hygiene and cavity risk, we may recommend a topical fluoride application. Fluoride can:

  • Help remineralize tooth enamel
  • Protect hard-to-reach areas between teeth
  • Benefit both adults and children
  • Help with tooth sensitivity

Not sure if you need fluoride? Ask our hygienist during your next visit!

Final Step: Dentist Exam & Oral Hygiene Review

The doctor will join you at the end of your visit to:

  • Review your exam and Digital X-rays
  • Discuss any findings or needed treatments
  • Reinforce proper brushing, flossing, and home care techniques

Are there different kinds of Dental Teeth Cleanings?

No. Dental Prophylaxis in Morton Grove is a fancy word for “teeth cleaning”—it is the only dental procedure of its kind. Prophylaxis involves a routine teeth cleaning every six months.

The procedures that are sometimes called “cleanings” are periodontal treatments:

1. Full Mouth Debridement–a pre-cleaning for those with severe calculus buildup.

2. Scaling and Root Planing–a deep cleaning for those with early stages of gum disease/periodontal disease

3. Perio Maintenance- A periodontal cleaning for patients with a history of Gum disease.