Dental Exams & Cleanings in North Dallas
Reviewed by Dr. Ron Katyal, DDS · Updated October 8, 2026
Most patients should have a dental exam and professional cleaning every six months. At Premier Smiles, each visit includes a thorough cleaning by our hygienist, an exam of your teeth and gums by Dr. Katyal, and X-rays when they are due — so small problems are caught while they are still easy to fix.
Dental exams and cleanings are both an important part of any smart oral care routine. While brushing, flossing, and taking care of your teeth at home are imperative to your overall oral health, going to the dentist at least twice a year for an exam and routine cleaning is also a must. Regardless of whether you are 6 or 60, visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a check-up and cleaning is important to your oral health and wellness.
During your initial exam with Dr. Katyal, we will go over your medical history as well as any past oral health problems. Dr. Katyal has more than 26 years of experience in the fields of both cosmetic and family dentistry, and we will be able to catch gum disease, decay, oral cancer, and other dental problems early on if you make it a point to see us at least twice a year.
About Our Cleanings
One of our trained and knowledgeable dental hygienists will use a scaler to scrape any existing tartar from both above and below the gum line during our routine cleaning. We may also use an ultrasonic device to loosen any stubborn plaque and tartar and then rinse it away with water. At this point we will polish the teeth with a paste and complete the process with a flossing.
About Our Exams
During the exam Dr. Katyal will look for any signs of decay, gum swelling, redness, periodontal disease, or other issues. He will also test how your upper and lower teeth come together and look for signs of teeth grinding or neck and jaw issues. There are some people who may need to visit the dentist more than twice a year, such as:
- Those with gum disease
- Family members with a history of cavities or plaque
- Those with a weakened immune system
- Those who have a history of stress or illness that could lead to changes in the mouth or infection
To learn more about our Dallas dental exams and cleanings, please do not hesitate to contact Premier Smiles today.
What Happens at Your Visit
- A review of your health history and any concerns you have
- Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Polishing to remove surface stains
- Measuring gum health to check for early gum disease
- X-rays when they are due, to find cavities and problems between teeth
- A full exam by Dr. Katyal, including a check for signs of oral cancer
- A clear explanation of anything we find, with options and costs
Regular Cleaning vs. Deep Cleaning
A regular cleaning maintains healthy gums. If tartar has built up below the gumline and gum disease has started, a deep cleaning — called scaling and root planing — removes the buildup from the root surfaces so the gums can heal. Patients with a history of gum disease often do best with cleanings every three to four months instead of six.
Exams and Cleanings for the Whole Family
We see patients of all ages, from young children to seniors. For kids, regular visits are also the right time to check whether their back teeth would benefit from sealants.
Insurance Coverage for Cleanings
Most dental plans cover preventive exams and cleanings twice a year, often at or near 100%. Our team verifies your coverage and files the claim. If you don’t have insurance, call us at (972) 235-7060 to ask about our options.
Dental Exams & Cleanings — Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a cleaning and exam take?
Most visits take about an hour. A first visit as a new patient may take a bit longer.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
Most patients feel little to no discomfort. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let us know — we can go gently and use numbing gel where needed.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring a photo ID, your dental insurance card, and a list of any medications you take. If you have recent X-rays from another office, we can request them.
Why do I need X-rays?
X-rays show cavities between teeth, infections at the root, and bone levels that can’t be seen during an exam. We take them only when they are due based on your history.
