Dental Exams & Cleanings Near Queens and Long Island, NY

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Preventive care is key

Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are the best way to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. While at-home care is essential for good dental health, dental cleanings remove the sticky plaque and tartar that contribute to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems that your toothbrush can’t remove on its own. Our thorough dental exams help catch decay and disease in the early stages when they can be treated quickly and easily.

Our routine dental exam and cleaning are designed with your lifelong health and wellness in mind.

At Locust Valley Dentists, Dr. Adrianne Koster is known for her skillful, modern, and gentle approach. Her focus is on prevention, education, and helping patients get the most out of each visit to her office. Keep reading to learn more about what to expect from your dental exam and cleaning at Locust Valley Dentists.

preventative care dental exam at locust valley dentists new york

Ready to begin your journey to a healthy smile?

At the Locust Valley Dentists, your dental exam and cleaning includes...

1. Thorough and gentle cleaning and polishing of your teeth by a dental hygienist.

2. Removal of plaque deposits from the teeth and gum line to reduce your risk of tooth decay.

3. Tips on how to brush and floss effectively at home.

4. Comprehensive dental exam of your teeth and gums for signs of decay and disease.

5. Quick and non-invasive oral cancer screening and bite alignment analysis.

6. Time with your dentist to ask questions and create a treatment plan for better oral health.

dental exam questions at locust valley dentists new york

How often do I need an exam and cleaning?

Patients with healthy teeth and gums will benefit the most from 2 dental exams and cleanings every year. If you have periodontal disease or other concerns, we may recommend more frequent exams and cleanings to ensure your long-term health.

How long will my dental exam and cleaning take?

Expect your exam and cleaning to take about an hour — maybe a little more if it’s your first visit to Locust Valley Dentists.

What’s the difference between a cleaning and a deep cleaning?

Deep cleanings are generally recommended for those who either have or are at high risk of gum disease. A deep cleaning removes bacteria beyond the gumline while our standard cleanings focus on the gumline and the surfaces of your teeth.

Will my cleaning be covered by insurance?

It’s impossible to know for sure without looking into the details of your specific plan. However, most plans are the most generous when covering preventive care like a cleaning and exam. With many PPO insurance plans, the out-of-pocket cost is very low and often $0.

Will I need other dental procedures?

The dental work that you may need will be determined during a dental exam to address the superficial needs of bacteria removal from hard-to-reach and hard-to-eliminate plaque. Commonly, a filling can be used to quickly address any cavities that may have opened in your teeth since your last visit, and we also offer comprehensive treatment for all dental problems and cosmetic dentistry desires.

Meet Your Dentist

While working at top dental practices in Manhattan, Dr. Adrianne Koster developed a unique approach to dental care. She combines modern technology with a gentle touch to provide dental exams that are thorough and promote long-term health and wellness. She has been named a “Top New York Dentist” each year since 2016 because of her:

 

  • Attention to detail and skill
  • Warm, caring, and attentive approach to patient care
  • Emphasis on comfort and satisfaction 
  • Continued study of the latest dental technology
  • Passion for changing lives
    meet your dental exam dentist at locust valley dentists new york

    Dental Exam FAQs

    How often should I go to the dentist?

    Most people only need to see a dentist once or twice a year. Those with certain oral health concerns, such as gum disease, may need to come in more frequently.

    Does a dental exam always include X-rays?

    Not every dental appointment will require you to have X-rays of your teeth, although X-rays are a highly effective way to track the long-term developments in your teeth and jaw.

    What happens during a dental exam?

    During your dental exam, a hygienist will clean your teeth and check them for cavities, gum disease, and signs of other oral health issues.

    Do I need to go to the dentist if Im not in pain?

    You should go to the dentist for routine exams and cleanings even if you are not in pain or experiencing symptoms.

    How do I prepare for a dental exam?

    Theres not much you need to do prior to an appointment at Locust Valley Dentists, although if its your first time, you should bring your insurance information and arrive a few minutes early to fill out some paperwork.

    Is the first dental exam different from routine ones?

    Yes, because your new dentist will need to establish a baseline of exams and images to compare to in later visits. Your first visit will be longer and potentially more thorough than later routine cleanings.

    Why are regular dental checkups important?

    Regular dental checkups are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy by screening for early signs of oral health issues. During a checkup, your hygienist will also remove plaque or tartar buildup on the teeth.

    Does a dental exam screen for oral cancer?

    During your dental exam, your dentist will screen for signs of oral cancer.

    Are dental exams covered by insurance?

    Most dental insurance policies will cover your routine dental exam.

    Who will perform my dental exam?

    At Locust Valley Dentists, Dr. Adrianne Koster will perform your oral exam after being prepped by our dental hygienists.

    Can a dental exam tell me if I have cavities?

    Yes, during a routine dental exam, Dr. Koster will identify if you have any cavities or other forms of tooth decay and create a treatment plan to address the issue.

    Are dental X-rays safe?

    Yes. The amount of radiation you will be exposed to during a dental X-ray is well within the safety limit established by the EPA.

    How long does a typical dental cleaning and polishing session take at Locust Valley Dentists?

    A general dental cleaning and polishing appointment can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. The length of your appointment largely depends on the health of your teeth and the amount of plaque build-up that needs to be cleaned off.

    What specific steps are involved in the removal of plaque deposits during a dental cleaning?

    Your dental hygienist will begin by looking for plaque deposits in the mouth. They will then use a scraping or scaling device to scrape away any areas of plaque. Next, they will polish the teeth using a gritty toothpaste to remove any leftover spots of plaque before finishing up by flossing the teeth.

    Can I receive personalized tips on improving my at-home brushing and flossing routine during the dental exam?

    Absolutely! During your appointment, your dentist can instruct you on how to properly brush your teeth, floss, and maintain your overall oral health. If you have any specific questions, they can offer you advice tailored to your personal needs.

    What does the comprehensive dental exam at Locust Valley Dentists entail, and how does it address signs of decay and disease?

    A comprehensive dental exam entails 6 crucial steps: Thorough cleaning and polishing, Plaque removal, Brushing and flossing tips, Comprehensive exam to check for signs of gum disease or tooth decay, Oral cancer screening and bite alignment analysis, & Time to ask your dentist any questions. If signs of decay or disease or spotted, they will be addressed in a manner that a general dentistry appointment allows. Your dentist will schedule a future appointment to further address the concerns.

    How does the non-invasive oral cancer screening conducted during a dental exam contribute to overall preventive care?

    By screening for oral cancer at your regular appointments, your dentist is more likely to catch it at its earliest stages. When caught early, there is a higher likelihood of being able to cure it.

    Is Locust Valley Dentists right for you?

    At Locust Valley Dentists, our patients and their overall oral health always come first. We begin every appointment by listening to you. You’re encouraged to share any concerns about how your smile looks or feels.

    As part of your dental exam, we’ll talk about:

    • How gum disease and tooth decay contribute to heart disease and other ailments
    • How to pick the best toothbrush and how to use it properly
    • Whether it makes sense to fill small cavities right away or to take a wait-and-see approach

    If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, don’t worry. The dentists and hygienists at Locust Valley Dentists are known for being gentle, warm, and friendly. We offer our patients eyewear, headphones, soothing music, aromatherapy, and blankets to decrease anxiety during treatment. This will be the most relaxing and comfortable dental experience of your life.

    How often should I go to the dentist?

    Most people only need to see a dentist once or twice a year. Those with certain oral health concerns, such as gum disease, may need to come in more frequently.

    Does a dental exam always include X-rays?

    Not every dental appointment will require you to have X-rays of your teeth, although X-rays are a highly effective way to track the long-term developments in your teeth and jaw.

    What happens during a dental exam?

    During your dental exam, a hygienist will clean your teeth and check them for cavities, gum disease, and signs of other oral health issues.

    Do I need to go to the dentist if Im not in pain?

    You should go to the dentist for routine exams and cleanings even if you are not in pain or experiencing symptoms.

    How do I prepare for a dental exam?

    Theres not much you need to do prior to an appointment at Locust Valley Dentists, although if its your first time, you should bring your insurance information and arrive a few minutes early to fill out some paperwork.

    Is the first dental exam different from routine ones?

    Yes, because your new dentist will need to establish a baseline of exams and images to compare to in later visits. Your first visit will be longer and potentially more thorough than later routine cleanings.

    Why are regular dental checkups important?

    Regular dental checkups are important to keep your teeth and gums healthy by screening for early signs of oral health issues. During a checkup, your hygienist will also remove plaque or tartar buildup on the teeth.

    Does a dental exam screen for oral cancer?

    During your dental exam, your dentist will screen for signs of oral cancer.

    Are dental exams covered by insurance?

    Most dental insurance policies will cover your routine dental exam.

    Who will perform my dental exam?

    At Locust Valley Dentists, Dr. Adrianne Koster will perform your oral exam after being prepped by our dental hygienists.

    Can a dental exam tell me if I have cavities?

    Yes, during a routine dental exam, Dr. Koster will identify if you have any cavities or other forms of tooth decay and create a treatment plan to address the issue.

    Are dental X-rays safe?

    Yes. The amount of radiation you will be exposed to during a dental X-ray is well within the safety limit established by the EPA.

    How long does a typical dental cleaning and polishing session take at Locust Valley Dentists?

    A general dental cleaning and polishing appointment can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. The length of your appointment largely depends on the health of your teeth and the amount of plaque build-up that needs to be cleaned off.

    What specific steps are involved in the removal of plaque deposits during a dental cleaning?

    Your dental hygienist will begin by looking for plaque deposits in the mouth. They will then use a scraping or scaling device to scrape away any areas of plaque. Next, they will polish the teeth using a gritty toothpaste to remove any leftover spots of plaque before finishing up by flossing the teeth.

    Can I receive personalized tips on improving my at-home brushing and flossing routine during the dental exam?

    Absolutely! During your appointment, your dentist can instruct you on how to properly brush your teeth, floss, and maintain your overall oral health. If you have any specific questions, they can offer you advice tailored to your personal needs.

    What does the comprehensive dental exam at Locust Valley Dentists entail, and how does it address signs of decay and disease?

    A comprehensive dental exam entails 6 crucial steps: Thorough cleaning and polishing, Plaque removal, Brushing and flossing tips, Comprehensive exam to check for signs of gum disease or tooth decay, Oral cancer screening and bite alignment analysis, & Time to ask your dentist any questions. If signs of decay or disease or spotted, they will be addressed in a manner that a general dentistry appointment allows. Your dentist will schedule a future appointment to further address the concerns.

    How does the non-invasive oral cancer screening conducted during a dental exam contribute to overall preventive care?

    By screening for oral cancer at your regular appointments, your dentist is more likely to catch it at its earliest stages. When caught early, there is a higher likelihood of being able to cure it.

    Location

    • Convenient office hours to fit the busiest schedules

    Philosophy

    • There’s never any stress or judgment here

    Office

    • Our modern, calm, and relaxing office is one of a kind

    Education

    • Learn how dental exams can improve your health

    No Insurance? No problem.

    Even if you don’t have dental insurance, you can still get the healthy smile you’ve always wanted! At Locust Valley Dentists, we work with our patients and offer a variety of financing options. Wondering how much your dental exam and cleaning will cost? We’re here to answer all of your questions.

    Insurance & Financing

    For your exam, our office is able to work with many PPO insurance providers.

    Our friendly front office team will help you file your claim and maximize your insurance benefits. If you don’t see your provider listed or if you have questions about payment options, contact our office to learn more.

    dental exam with no insurance at locust valley dentists new york

    " Dr. Koster is a great dentist who is patient, attentive, and gentle.  She took the time to explain every treatment option available and made sure that all of my questions and concerns were addressed. The staff is very friendly and always willing to work around my schedule.  I would definitely recommend Dr. Koster for your dental care. "

    - Jeniza K.

    I love this office! Dr Koster knows what she’s doing and has great staff that are friendly and professional! What I appreciate the most is her attention to detail, looking out for my best interest and letting me know what’s happening with my health so I can take better care of myself. This Doctor is truly someone who cares about her patients!!! "

    - Renee S.

    Dr. Adrianne Koster is Amazing! She is caring, gentle, extremely personable, and provides exceptional dentistry. The staff is very professional and nice. Thank you! I love my new smile. "

    - Maria G.

    Monday
    9am - 6pm
    Tuesday
    8am - 5pm
    Wednesday
    9am - 5pm
    Thursday
    9am - 6pm
    Friday
    CLOSED
    Saturday
    CLOSED
    Sunday
    CLOSED