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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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.
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Melody Stewart
September 8, 2026
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Lance Family dental is a welcoming office! Everyone goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable. Professional, thorough, and genuinely caring. I highly recommend them!
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Amanda H
August 28, 2026
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The ladies at this office are truly wonderful. I was a new patient and there was a bit of a wait to get in - but now I understand why. They are kind, empathetic, and answered all my questions and/or concerns with professionalism. Up-to-date tools/technology as well. A well-managed dental office and I highly recommend them.
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Prudence Willard
August 27, 2026
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Such a wonderful caring staff. Dr. Lance and his team are amazing!
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Cathy Tourville
August 23, 2026
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Very Friendly and professional staff at Lance Family Dentistry.
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Joseph Luck profile picture
Joseph Luck
August 22, 2026
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My kids love Lance Family. Lance Family has super friendly staff and you can pick a show to watch while you lay back.
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Tracy Paul Trahan (Paul)
August 15, 2026
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Very professional staff. Effectively and efficiently processed new patient application.
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AndyFZ6R
August 12, 2026
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Great family dentist office, nice staff, friendly text reminders for appointments. New office coming soon to be able to help more families with dental needs, Angela is the most thorough dental hygienist I've ever had and makes it easy to recomend people to Lance family dental.
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Ann Adams
August 8, 2026
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This place is the best! My first visit they made me feel so comfortable. They asked me questions about me, trying to get to know me. They explained everything they were doing. And there was a tv on the ceiling to watch while my teeth were getting cleaned! I definitely recommend!!!!
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Tammra White
August 6, 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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Kelly Withington
August 4, 2026
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Finally I am comfortable at the dentist.
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Brent Axley
August 3, 2026
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They are good.
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Alyssa McKelvey / Meador profile picture
Alyssa McKelvey / Meador
July 24, 2026
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I have had wonderful experience with all the staff there. It has been a wonderful transition for us.
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Steve Uzzell
July 7, 2026
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Lance Family is top shelf ! Each visit has been exceptional - professional, informative and very kind. I can finally say that I have “MY Dentist”.
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Peyton Waters
June 20, 2026
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The hygienist that cleaned my teeth was the sweetest! This place overall is very welcoming and cozy!
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Georgia Pinson
June 15, 2026
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Very friendly, fast and communicates well!
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Tammy Howard
June 13, 2026
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I am 58 years old & can honestly say that Lance Dental is the best Dental Office I have ever used And not just for me, as my grown daugher & here family agree. My 10 year old granddaughter says she never wants to see any other Dentist. Additional, I have very strong dental anxiety. Dr. Lance's team always make sure I am completely conforfirtable before starting any procedure!

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.