Dental Hygiene in Seattle, WA
Keep your family's smiles healthy and happy.
Building Strong Foundations for Oral Health
Regular dental hygiene visits are critical to keeping you and your family’s smiles healthy for the long-term.
Dental hygiene, also known as routine teeth cleaning, is a preventative treatment intended to stop oral diseases before they even start.
By getting regular dental hygiene appointments, you can:
Take a proactive approach to your oral health and keep smiling for years to come.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Here are the simple steps we'll take during your visit for dental hygiene in Seattle, WA.
We start each appointment by getting updated on your health and history. We’ll listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have, and take x-rays if needed.
One of our experienced and caring dental hygienists will perform a thorough cleaning. They’ll gently remove the bacteria built up around your gum line and polish your teeth until they shine. They may also perform periodontal charting to check the health of your gums.
Lastly, Dr. Fidler or Dr. Sun will examine your teeth. They’ll look carefully for any problems and warning signs so we can proactively address them. They will answer any additional questions and provide tips to improve your daily hygiene routine.
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Why Choose Fidler on the Tooth for Your Dental Hygiene?
We truly love making our patients smile – it's why we get out of bed every day!
Dr. Vicki Fidler, Dr. Fang Sun, and their caring team of top-notch dental professionals go above and beyond to deliver exceptional patient care, from the moment you first contact us.
We understand that fear of the dentist keeps many patients from getting the critical treatment they need to keep their smiles healthy. Our compassionate team works hard to make your experience comfortable, relaxed, and convenient.
Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love our office:
Ready to learn more about our difference?
Questions About Dental Hygiene in Seattle, WA?
Get the answers from our experienced team of dental pros.
- What other services do you offer as part of my dental hygiene visit?
A standard dental hygiene service, also known as dental prophylaxis…Opens in new window to article from Healthline about dental prophylaxis…, typically involves the following:
- Cleaning
- Flossing and polishing
- Doctor’s exam by Dr. Fidler or Dr. Sun
- Oral Cancer Screening
Based on your specific needs, it may also include:
- X-rays
- Laser bacterial reduction (LBR)
- Fluoride treatment
- Sealants
- Scaling and root planing
- Periodontal charting
- Intra-oral photos
- Will my dental hygiene visit hurt?
We do our very best to make the whole experience as painless and easy as possible. We understand that fear of pain is a very common reason why people avoid the dentist. Our team is sensitive to these concerns and makes an extra effort to provide care with a gentle, compassionate touch. We take it slow and always make sure you feel in control, communicating frequently, and taking breaks when you need it. If your anxiety or fear is preventing you from coming in for your hygiene appointment, please speak up! We also offer multiple sedation options to keep you calm and comfortable during your cleaning if necessary.
- What is scaling and root planing?
A routine cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) above and around your gumline. This is the standard level of cleaning we recommend for everyone every six months. However, if your gums are showing signs of disease, a deeper level of cleaning may be needed below the gum line, known as scaling and root planing…Opens in a new window to an article about scaling and root planing…. Scaling is when we thoroughly remove all the plaque above and below your gumline. Once scaling is complete, we’ll perform root planing, smoothing out your teeth roots to help your gums gently re-adhere to your teeth. We may use a local anesthetic to minimize any discomfort during this procedure. If you are uncomfortable, please speak up! We are sensitive to your needs and can work with you to find a pain-free solution.
- Do you use modern technology at Fidler on the Tooth?
Yes! We’ve invested in advanced technology and techniques to make your visit more comfortable. Some examples include:
- An electronic scaler, known as a cavitron, that vibrates and uses water to quickly remove hardened plaque. This helps us breeze through your cleaning efficiently, so you spend less time in the chair with the same great results!
- To polish your teeth, we use an air-polishing system, known as a prophy jet…Opens in a new window to more information about prophy jets…, that combines water and baking soda to remove stains and debris from your teeth. This is another way we make your cleaning as quick and comfortable as possible.
- Is dental hygiene covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover at least two cleanings a year, so you can get the recommended care you need every six months. We accept many in-network and out-of-network insurance plans and will bill on your behalf. We are happy to work with you to understand your coverage and maximize your benefits. For patients without insurance or in need of extra financial help, we also offer financing through CareCredit…Opens in a new window to CareCredit’s homepage….
- Do you treat children?
Absolutely, we LOVE kids! As a proud mother of four, Dr. Fidler knows a thing or two about handling kiddos. She finds joy in making dentistry fun and helping them develop healthy oral habits from an early age.
- I'm diabetic. Is there anything I should know about dental care related to my health condition?
If you are diabetic, you are more likely to have oral health problems. You’re at greater risk of infection, cavities, and slower healing times after dental surgery. The good news? Our dental team at Fidler on the Tooth is highly knowledgable and experienced at providing the extra care needed for our diabetic patients. Being a diabetic herself, Dr. Fidler understands the special needs of people living with this condition on a personal level.
- I'm pregnant. Are there any special dental care needs I should be aware of?
First, congratulations! We are thrilled to help keep your oral health in top shape as you prepare for your new baby. During pregnancy, changes in hormone levels and eating habits can allow bacteria to grow in your mouth and gums more easily. This puts you at a higher risk for oral infection…Opens in new window to pdf from Journal of Midwifery and Women about dental care during pregnancy…, such as periodontal disease. For women that experience morning sickness, the stomach acids from vomiting can also break down the enamel coating on your teeth. Don’t worry, we’re sensitive to these issues and experienced at helping women navigate their dental care during pregnancy. Let us know that you are pregnant, and we can provide you the additional care needed to address these health concerns. We’ll make sure you and your baby stay safe and healthy, avoiding any unsafe medications and limit x-rays.