Peartree Dental Care

Dr. Michael Zhou

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(410) 750-2599

General and Aesthetic Dentistry

5725 Richards Valley Rd A7
Ellicott City, MD 21043

Peartree Dental Care > Services > Cleanings and Exams

Healthy smiles start with prevention, including routine dental exams and teeth cleanings.

Cleanings and Exams

Think back to your last dental visit. Has it been longer than you'd like to admit? It's understandable—life gets busy, and it's easy to fall behind with your routine appointments. At Peartree Dental Care, we understand and are here to make your preventive dental care easy and convenient.

As your dentist in Ellicott City, MD, Dr. Michael Zhou and our experienced team prioritize preventing problems before they start. Routine dental exams and teeth cleanings every six months allow us to care for your teeth and gums and prevent minor issues from becoming major ones.

The Protection Your Smile Needs

Prevention goes beyond brushing and flossing. A good plan includes consistent oral hygiene, regular visits to the dentist, and protective treatments like sealants and fluoride when needed. It also includes engaging you in your dental care because informed patients tend to experience fewer issues and better oral health overall.

Benefits of Preventive Dental Exams and Cleanings

Preventive dental care is about more than just avoiding cavities—it’s the foundation of a healthy, confident smile and long-term oral health. Here are three key benefits of regular dental exams and teeth cleanings in Ellicott City:

Save Time and Money

Regular checkups catch issues early, resulting in less invasive treatments. Preventing problems before they escalate reduces the need for costly, time-consuming procedures while protecting your long-term oral health.

Better Overall Health

Oral health impacts the entire body. Preventive care reduces the risk of infections, identifies signs of systemic issues like diabetes, and lowers inflammation, supporting general health and improving quality of life.

Greater Confidence

Routine cleanings remove plaque and stains, keeping your teeth bright and strong. Preventive care also protects against tooth loss and gum disease, ensuring you can confidently share a healthy, attractive smile with others.

Our Team

Meet More of Our Team

Dr. Michael Zhou

Dr. Michael Zhou grew up in Maryland and earned his undergraduate degree in history from Johns Hopkins University. He then completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree at the University of Maryland Dental School, followed by a general dentistry residency (AEGD) at the Martinsburg Veterans Affairs Medical Center in West Virginia. This advanced training provided him with comprehensive experience in treating complex dental cases and working with patients from diverse backgrounds.

A Foundation in Research and Lifelong Learning

Dr. Zhou’s dedication to lifelong learning is evident in his extensive research and ...

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Dental Exams: A Window into Your Oral Health

Routine dental exams every six months allow us to identify and address potential issues in the early stages. During your appointment, Dr. Zhou will carefully evaluate the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw. This review includes:

Asking about concerns or changes since your last visit
Checking for cavities and gum disease
Checking the condition of existing dental work
Evaluating teeth and bite alignment
Performing an oral cancer screening

If you have issues to address, such as cavities or broken teeth, Dr. Zhou and our team will work with you to explain the treatment process and help you understand your insurance and financing options.

Teeth Cleanings: A Fresh Start for Your Smile

Professional teeth cleanings keep your smile bright and protect against dental disease. Even with excellent at-home care, plaque and tartar can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, which increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. During your cleaning appointment, our skilled hygienists will:

Gently remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Polish your teeth for a smooth, clean finish.
Offer personalized tips to enhance your oral hygiene routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do my gums bleed when I brush?

Bleeding gums are often an early warning sign of gum disease, typically caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. While occasional bleeding while flossing may occur, regular bleeding during brushing or flossing indicates that your gums need attention.

The Importance of Gum Health

Healthy gums are essential for a healthy mouth. When bacteria-filled plaque accumulates along the gumline, it triggers an inflammatory response in your gum tissue. This inflammation, known as gingivitis, causes gums to become red, swollen, and prone to bleeding. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to more serious periodontal disease.

Proactive Steps for Healthy Gums

The good news is that early-stage gum disease is reversible with proper care. Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup, while improved home care helps prevent future problems. Dr. Zhou can evaluate your gum health and create a treatment plan that may include:

Demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques
Recommending oral care products
Developing a professional cleaning schedule tailored to your needs

Don't ignore bleeding gums—they're your body's way of signaling that something needs attention. Contact Peartree Dental Care in Ellicott City, MD, to schedule a cleaning so we can evaluate your gums. We'll help you understand the cause of your bleeding gums and create a plan to restore your periodontal health.

Cleanings and Exams Technology

Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras are small, high-definition tools that allow Dr. Zhou to capture and display detailed images of your mouth in real-time. They help identify cracks, decay, and gum issues while providing a clear view of your dental health. This painless, noninvasive technology ensures accurate diagnoses and enables you to make informed decisions about your care. Images are stored digitally for future reference, enhancing record-keeping and continuity in your treatment.

SEE OUR TECHNOLOGY

Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup

Are you due for your next dental checkup? Peartree Dental Care welcomes patients at every stage of their oral health journey. Whether you're right on schedule or it's been a while, you'll find only support and encouragement from a team that wants the best for you.

Call us today at (410) 750-2599 to schedule your next appointment. We provide thorough, gentle care for patients from Ellicott City, Columbia, Catonsville, and surrounding communities.

Blogs

December 10, 2024

5 Tips to Get the Most out of Your Next Dental Exam

Most people only experience dental exams a few times yearly, depending on their oral healthcare needs. If you have a consultation or cleaning on your calendar, be sure to prepare so you make the most of your time with your dentist. Scheduled for a dental exam with Dr. Michael Zhou at our Ellicott City, MD, practice? If not, and you need a dentist in the area, we would happily arrange an appointment! In the meantime, remember these five tips to streamline your next dental visit.

1. Find your dental and medical ...

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November 15, 2024

How to Prepare for Your Next Dental Cleaning

Most dental patients can expect to come to their dentist every six months for a thorough dental cleaning. Yet the majority simply note the date on their calendars without considering how they can prepare for the appointment. To help make your next appointment at PearTree Dental Care in Ellicott City, MD, an enjoyable experience, why not take the following suggestions to heart? Of course, if you have skipped dental cleaning visits or need to arrange a new visit, please call our office at (410) 750-2599.

1. Write down any concerns about your oral health

Dentists have become ...