Preventive Dentistry – Tukwila, WA

Dental Cleanings

One of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums free of disease is with routine preventive cleanings. For most patients, these cleanings are every 6 months. Over time, tartar buildup can cause bad breath, gum disease, and bone loss. Cleanings remove this buildup and help patients have a healthy smile that lasts for years. If regular cleanings aren’t a part of your preventive care routine, gum disease and other types of conditions may develop. Unfortunately, these can lead to permanent tooth loss.

During your cleanings, our hygienists will:

• Assess for bone loss and gum infections
• Clean plaque and tartar off of your teeth and just below the gum line
• Treat areas of infection as needed
• Provide you with the information you need to control and prevent further infections at home

Dental Checkups

Dr. Timmerman performs a routine exam at each of your visits to monitor changes that may have occurred in your mouth, such as areas of weak enamel that are beginning to show wear or advancement of gum infections. This allows him to be proactive in treatment and be as minimally invasive as possible. He will discuss every finding with you so that you can be completely informed the entire time.

Fluoride Treatments

Protecting tooth enamel and preventing cavities is important for both adults and children. Fluoride is useful for battling sensitivity as well as protecting demineralized enamel. We apply fluoride after your cleaning when the tooth is most susceptible to absorbing the mineral. This professional application enhances the strength of your enamel and helps fight off the development of future decay.

Dental Sealants

Sealants help fight decay. They are placed in areas where there are deep grooves or pits on the surface of the teeth. These areas are very prone to developing cavities due to how difficult they are to keep clean. Sealants are thin protective coatings that make the grooves shallower and block bacteria out. This makes it easier to brush and keep the teeth free of decay.

Nightguards for Bruxism

If you or Dr. Timmerman have noticed that some of your teeth are looking excessively worn down, or if you frequently have headaches or jaw pain in the morning, you could have a condition called bruxism. This occurs when you grind or clench your teeth while you sleep. We can alleviate your symptoms and protect your teeth using a custom mouthguard that you wear at night. This appliance keeps your teeth from touching and relaxes the jaw muscles for long-term relief.

Oral Cancer Screening

Did you know that oral cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer? At least 53,000 people are estimated to be newly diagnosed this year, and nearly half of them will likely not survive past 5 years. That’s why oral cancer screenings with Dr. Timmerman are so important. We use Oral ID, a system that utilizes a light to identify potentially cancerous cells. If we find something concerning, we’ll refer you to a physician for additional testing and treatment.

Learn More About Oral Cancer Screenings

Dental Checkups & Teeth Cleanings for Kids

Dr. Timmerman and the rest of our team are happy to help young patients have healthy smiles and look forward to meeting your child. We treat with a gentle touch and will make sure your child is completely comfortable. Similar to an adult checkup, we’ll examine each tooth for signs of decay and demonstrate proper technique for brushing and flossing, helping your child develop the necessary skills for lifelong oral health.

Athletic Mouthguards

You wouldn’t let your child play football without a helmet or other protective gear, but are you leaving their teeth unprotected? Even non-contact sports like basketball, soccer, and more can lead to blows to the face. Store-bought mouthguards are often uncomfortable and unappealing, especially for children. A custom mouthguard from our dental office can ensure a comfortable fit, trusted protection, and motivate your athlete to wear it out on the field or court.