Exams & Cleanings at Brentwood Family Dentistry

Top Dentists in Brentwood, MO

what are Exams & Cleanings?

Maintaining good dental hygiene is an important aspect of living a healthy lifestyle. It is crucial to stay on top of any issues with the mouth early on when they are still manageable and easy to fix. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help keep problems at bay.

This includes going to the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and exam, brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sugary drinks, protecting your teeth from damage by wearing a protective guard and getting regular dental checks.

Examples of things we look for at your regular exams and cleanings are:

  • Cavities
  • Tooth wear
  • Cracks in teeth
  • Oral cancer
  • Gum recession
  • Inflammation of the gums
  • Early signs of gum disease

 

These are all examples of problems of the mouth that could require more involved treatment, and cause greater damage if left untreated for an extended period of time. This is why it is important to receive regular dental exams and cleanings. We understand that not everybody likes going to the dentist, but we promise to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Exams and Cleanings - Brentwood Family Denitstry
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In accordance with the American Dental Association, we recommend a dental exam twice a year. Depending on the health of your gums, we recommend getting cleanings at least twice a year, sometimes more. 

Did you know that your mouth can be your best health indicator? If you’re experiencing any discomfort, it could be an indication of a bigger problem. Early diagnosis of oral problems may prevent serious, more complicated issues down the road. Our goal is to provide you with the dental services that suit your needs and budget. We offer free consultations for potential patients, so contact us today to schedule your appointment

What happens during a teeth cleaning?

A teeth cleaning is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth. The dentist or dental hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar by using a special tool called a scaler. The dentist or dental hygienist will also polish your teeth to remove any stains, and they may use an electric toothbrush to clean the surfaces of your teeth.

The dentist or dental hygienist will also examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other problems. If necessary, they may take x-rays to see if there are any problems in the roots of your teeth that cannot be seen with a visual examination.

Dental exams are one of the most important aspects of dental care. They allow dentists to determine if there are any irregularities in the mouth and provide a diagnosis. The teeth and gums are closely examined and cleaned and X-rays may be taken to identify possible problems.

Almost half of all adults are suffering from gum disease, but there are many more people without any symptoms who are also unknowingly suffering from it.

Gum disease is a common problem affecting almost half of the adult population. It’s easy to overlook because it often doesn’t have any specific symptoms, but gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other more serious health complications if left untreated.

It’s important to visit your dentist regularly to get your teeth cleaned and checked. Regular dental checkups are the best way to catch gum disease before it’s too late. Early detection can save you from more expensive dental treatments later on.

Preventing Gum Disease With Exams & Cleanings

The reason for the high number of people who suffer from gum disease and don’t know they do is because, more often than not, there are no symptoms.

One of the hidden dangers of gum disease is that it doesn’t always present symptoms. As a result, many people don’t get diagnosed. But by doing simple things like brushing teeth twice a day, flossing daily & getting yearly dental checkups, it’s possible to prevent this silent killer.

Gum disease is a process of inflammation and infection of the gums that causes detachment of the gum from the teeth. The inflammation and infection as a result of the disease can cause severe pain, tooth loss, and even toothaches.

While tooth loss is often a slow progression, it can happen much quicker than you might think. The progression of this disease can take years but it’s important to make sure that your teeth and mouth are healthy as early in life as possible in order to stave off any future problems.

There are a few things you can do to avoid tooth loss. For instance, brushing your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time can help prevent plaque buildup and cavities. You should also visit your dentist once every six months for a checkup to make sure everything is going well.

Gum Disease is a condition that must be identified and diagnosed by a dentist, and it is critical to undergo regular evaluations to have a normal routine of prevention. This can be done through regular dental cleanings and good home care.

Gum disease is a serious condition that can lead to heart disease and diabetes. It must be identified and diagnosed by a dentist, and it is important to get evaluated regularly and have a normal routine of prevention.

If you are diagnosed with gum disease, we recommend a certain type and frequency of dental cleanings in accordance with the American Dental Association. We will also discuss lifestyle changes that can prevent further progression of the disease.

This disease is manageable with the right steps, and we would love to help you eliminate it.

Sedation During Your Cleaning

With modern medications and techniques, anxiety can be easily managed in a dental setting.  If you want sedation, but do not want to arrange a driver, you can have the mild sedative of nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to allow relaxation during your visit.

The sooner you come to see us, the sooner you will know the health status of your mouth, and can establish regular visits for yourself. We can’t wait to meet you!

What Our Patients Are Saying

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James profile picture
J
27 September 2026
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Used them since forever I kept all my teeth so they did very well
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Kevin Kerr profile picture
K Kerr
21 July 2026
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Amazing Dr’s & Staff
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Patrick Boyle profile picture
P Boyle
20 January 2026
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I have been going to Brentwood Family Dentistry for the past three years - after having gone to a different dental practice for more than 30 years. I am very glad that I switched - from the dentists, to the hygienists, to the office staff - everyone I have encountered has been wonderful. I highly recommend this practice.
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Julia Campbell profile picture
J Campbell
9 January 2026
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I’ve never liked a dentist until Brentwood Family Dentistry! They are great people- kind, honest, and keep my teeth healthy.
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Patrick B profile picture
P B
4 December 2025
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Absolutely perfect experience. Got a deep clean and 2 fillings with zero discomfort or pain. The whole visit was GREAT from start to finish. I 100% recommend!
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Maureen Mahach profile picture
M Mahach
19 November 2025
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Dr. Michael R. Doherty is an excellent dentist who truly cares about his patients.
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Matthew Lemp profile picture
M Lemp
29 October 2025
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Dr. Doherty has been the dentist for myself and my twin boys for the past few years and I cannot say enough positive things about them, their office, and everything else. The office is warm, friendly, and the service is exceptional.
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Elizabeth Coy profile picture
E Coy
20 October 2025
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I was referred here by a co worker after having avoided going to the dentist for 5 years and this was by far the best experience I've ever had. The hygienist Ariana made me feel so comfortable and walked me through everything. The doctor was the same. Highly recommend if you are looking for a new dentist.
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Hillary J Williams profile picture
H J Williams
8 October 2025
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If I could give Brentwood Family Dentistry 10 stars, I would! And an extra 10 for Dr. Dan Doherty, who I am lucky to call my dentist. He brings calmness while still explaining things thoroughly; always maintaining a positive outlook regarding options and a care plan. He doesn’t settle for less than 100% satisfaction and that begins the moment you step into his office.
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ReallySmartKitty profile picture
R
2 August 2025
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Dr. Dan is great!
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Erica Thomas profile picture
E Thomas
17 July 2025
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I’ve been going here for about 2 months now. The best experience !!
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Mary Johnson profile picture
M Johnson
13 July 2025
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I hadn’t been to a dentist in years, went to one 2 years ago because they had “gas” for nervous patients. It was ok. Then I met the staff at Brentwood Dentistry and they did not use anything but patients, skill & compassion. I finally got the crown I needed for years. They saved my tooth and now I am completely pain free from the day it was put on!!!
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Keith Larner profile picture
K Larner
29 May 2025
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Dr. Daniel Doherty is my new dentist, I am happy and thankful to say! I learned first-hand yesterday that he is a brilliant dentist and a truly kind person. I firmly believe you will not meet a finer gentleman, nor a better dentist. It's obvious that he cares about his patients. He painlessly prepared my broken tooth, and made me a perfectly fitted crown, in my first visit, all within 90 minutes from start to finish. Dr. Daniel Doherty makes perfectly fitted crowns in-house. Very few dentists can do that. He employs the highest state of the art technology, and I actually watched him make my crown. I was pleasantly surprised that his prices are extremely reasonable. He and his staff are so friendly and helpful. I am so impressed and grateful to my new dentist, Dr. Daniel Doherty! 😀
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John Cantalin profile picture
J Cantalin
29 March 2025
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Timing, quality are top notch. Staff are very helpful and efficient. I got an appointment in right away.
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Larry McMahon profile picture
L Mcmahon
18 February 2025
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Dr. Dan, Erin and the entire staff could not be more friendly or professional. I look forward to every visit!
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Lee Essner profile picture
L Essner
23 December 2024
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Awesome practice! My entire family comes here, including our young kids. Can’t recommend enough.
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Sarah Morton profile picture
S Morton
25 September 2024
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Was referred by a friend, took my 6 year old yesterday for his first dental visit. They were absolutely phenomenal. It's a father and 2 sons who are the dentists, both sons have young children and were EXCELLENT with my little guy. He came out feeling like a champ. I HIGHLY recommend them for kids and adults. Very organized, everyone was extremely friendly, they were on time and it didn't take long at all. We will be patients for life.