Services
Checkups and cleanings
A routine visit for anyone in the family: a hygienist cleans and polishes, then Dr. Casillas examines your teeth and gums.
Adults and children are seen the same way, with a little more time and a lot more explaining for the youngest. The visit ends with what we found and when to come back.
What happens at a checkup
- 01
Step 1: We talk first
We ask what has changed since your last visit and what you'd like us to look at.
- 02
Step 2: The hygienist cleans
Melanie or Erasmo removes buildup, polishes, and checks your gums. A cleaning usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
- 03
Step 3: X-rays, only if needed
Dr. Casillas decides whether anyone needs X-rays, and how often. Some people need them every year or so, others less often.
- 04
Step 4: The exam and the plan
Dr. Casillas looks at each tooth and your gums and tells you what she sees. If anything needs treatment, you get the options and a written estimate.
Good to know
Comfort
A cleaning can feel like pressure or scraping, and gums that are sore may be tender. Tell your hygienist and they'll slow down, stop for a moment or change what they're doing.
If you wait
Skipped checkups mean problems are found later, when they may need more treatment. Dr. Casillas tells you what she sees and what could happen if you wait, and you decide.
Risks and after-care
Dental X-rays use a small amount of radiation, and we take them only when the dentist decides they will help. Gums can feel sore for a day after a deep clean. Dr. Casillas explains the risks of any treatment before you decide.
How it's billed
Many dental plans cover routine visits, and we file the claim for plans we work with. Without insurance, you get a written estimate in advance. See how fees work for how it fits a family.
How fees work
Questions about checkups and cleanings
How often should we come in?
Dr. Casillas sets the schedule for each person. Many people come twice a year, and some need to come more often.
Can adults and children come on the same day?
Yes. Ask for everyone's visit in one request and we'll book them back to back.
Do you take X-rays at every visit?
No. The dentist decides when each person needs them, based on their teeth and history.
What should a child bring?
Nothing special. A favorite toothbrush is welcome, and so is a parent in the room.
Provided by a general dentist
Cleanings are done by our hygienists, Melanie Pettway and Erasmo Perea, licensed dental hygienists in Texas, with Dr. Casillas, a general dentist, examining each patient. Their licenses are listed in the footer.