Preventive Dentistry
Portland, Oregon
exams + cleanings | x-rays | sealants | fluoride treatments | gum care
exams + cleanings
A routine exam and professional cleaning should occur every 6 months as the cornerstone to your oral health. You'll receive a comprehensive examination of your teeth and gums, along with a wash to remove plaque and tartar, rinse, floss, and polish to keep that smile bright and beautiful. The cleaning will finish with a fluoride treatment to help prevent decay, infection, and future bacteria from forming. Dr. Michelle recommends patients continue care at home by brushing twice daily, flossing, and using mouth rinse.
x-rays
An x-ray is recommended every year to help us see what could be hidden from plain view. X-rays are crucial for diagnosing oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, and are needed for procedures like placing implants and performing root canals. Northwoods Dental has invested in today's most advanced technology with a brand new x-ray machine giving us state of the art tools for diagnosing issues, and keeping the patient safe and comfortable.
sealants
Dental sealants are a great way to help prevent cavities. Typically applied to molars on the chewing surface, sealants are a thin protective coating which combat everyday attacks from cavity-forming bacteria, food, and acids. Sealants can last up to 5 years and have even shown the ability to prevent minor tooth decay from becoming a full cavity that needs a filling.
fluoride treatments
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps prevent tooth decay and should be included with your overall dental hygiene plan. Applications of fluoride come in gels, foams, and varnishes that are easy to apply, effective, and pain-free. The minerals in fluoride absorb into the surface of the tooth, making it stronger and more capable of fighting decay, bacteria, and infection. Unlike most major cities, Portland does not include fluoride in the drinking water, making it even more important to have it applied at your next appointment.
gum care
Gum disease occurs by failing to get an exam and cleaning every 6 months. Over time, the plaque on your teeth builds up and starts to irritate the gums. If untreated, the gums will recede away from the teeth, exposing more tooth surface to be compromised and longer looking teeth. The plaque will release toxins into your gums and underlying bone that cause deterioration and eventual loss of the tooth. Common symptoms of gum disease is noticeable bad breath and bleeding when brushing. Northwoods Dental offers a special deep cleaning service that helps reduce, or even stop, the spread of gum disease.
Contact Info
Location
3505 SE 36th Avenue
Portland, OR 97202
Contact
(503) 235-7181 - Call or Text
Open Hours
Mon: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Tue: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Wed: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Thu: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
Fri-Sun: CLOSED