Exams & Cleanings at Lance Family Dental

Best dentist in Festus, MO

Why is it important to get Exams and Cleanings?

Maintaining a healthy mouth and good dental hygiene is important for living a healthy lifestyle. You should stay on top of any issues you or your children have during the early stages when it’s easily manageable, rather than waiting until later when it becomes more difficult to correct. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are the best way to do this.

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.

Female patient smiling during a professional dental exam and cleaning at Lance Family Dental in Festus, MO.

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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.

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 can you expect during regular exams and cleanings?

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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Dee Dee Dolde
November 5, 2026
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Been a while since I have been in for check-up and cleaning. New building is comfortable and roomy and everyone so friendly. My hygenist Steph was awesome. Took her time and explained everything so well. As always Dr. Brad was very friendly and listened to any concerns. Highly recommend.
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Larry Nichols
November 3, 2026
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It was a great experience. The staff was friendly, efficient and did a great job communicating. Dr. Lance did a great job.
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Cara Akridge
November 3, 2026
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This is one of the friendliest offices I've ever been in. Dr. Brad is awesome and Angela goes above and beyond in her role as hygienist! While no one is thrilled to go to the dentist, I highly recommend them to anyone needing one.
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Taylor Jennings
November 2, 2026
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Staff was so friendly and dental hygienist was so sweet and took the time to explain things so I would understand! I have found my new Dentist and will bring my husband in for a visit too!
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Carol Armbruster
October 28, 2026
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New office is awesome plenty of parking . Everyone who works there always has a smile on their face and friendly greeting as you walk in the door. Hygienist was very professional and answered my questions . Dr Lance was very personable and provided excellent care.
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Jennifer Brennan
October 28, 2026
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Great place!
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Jocelyn Heitman
October 28, 2026
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Best dentist and crew!
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Sandy Russell
October 25, 2026
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They always do a great job on all my dental needs.
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Nancy Bahr
October 21, 2026
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Highly recommend!! Friendly, caring, and very professional staff! Awesome experience!
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Tammra White
October 20, 2026
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I love how friendly the entire staff are!! They make you feel comfortable and are very skilled and thorough at what they do!!
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Michelle Laburay
October 15, 2026
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The staff and dentists are all very professional, always friendly, and helpful for myself and my family. My 9 year enjoys going to the dentist and we we have nothing but great things to say about everyone. We would recommend them anyone, of all ages, we have had cavities filled, crowns, and just cleanings, they do a great job!
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Carol Bookout
October 14, 2026
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I very highly recommend Lance Family Dental. I received great care from both my hygienist, Angela, and Dr. Lance. They were both very personable. The office staff is also very kind and helpful. Their new building is very spacious and nice.
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Kate Kraft
October 14, 2026
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Love this office and would recommend! Always met with smiling faces & friendly staff and they are great at accommodating for busy schedules!
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Michelle Hillis
October 14, 2026
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I absolutely love my dentist! Dr Lance is professional and makes you feel comfortable. Stephanie my hygienist on this visit was very friendly and my teeth feel amazing. I would highly recommend Lance Family Dental!
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KHM - Project Salty Frog
October 13, 2026
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Brand new facility, super nice - excellent care.
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Spencer Gardner
October 9, 2026
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Highly recommend! It’s very convenient that I can schedule myself and the kids at the same time for our cleanings. Dr. Bumberry was amazing with my daughter for an appointment to fix a cavity
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Monica
September 9, 2026
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"Best dental experience I have ever had. The office is spotless, the hygienist was gentle and thorough. The front desk staff is also super professional and helpful with reminders.

Voted Best of Jefferson County Winner in 2025 and recognized as a Finalist in 2026.
We’re honored to be recognized for the quality of care we provide and the trust of our community.