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Dental Cleanings and Exams

Keep Your Teeth & Gums Healthy

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Stay Ahead of Dental Issues With Dental Cleanings & Exams in Wilmington

It's important to maintain good oral habits, like regular brushing and flossing. However, you can only do so much on your own. When you combine your at-home routine with regular dental cleanings and exams in Wilmington, your smile will stay bright and healthy. With Dr. Shumate's help, you can:

  • Save time and stress by avoiding potential dental issues
  • Feel comfortable showing off your smile around others
  • Leave our office with a fresh and clean feeling
  • Prevent infections and avoid damage that puts your smile at risk
  • Set cosmetic dental goals so you can achieve the look you want

No insurance? We're fine with that! Join our Membership Club for savings on your treatment. If it's your first appointment, take advantage of our new patient special, a cleaning and exam for only $149.

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Build a Healthy Smile With Personalized Preventive Care

At Porters Neck Dentistry, Dr. Shumate and his team prioritize your dental health and well-being above all else.

Routine checkups give our team an opportunity to understand your smile and help you avoid future problems. You also have the chance to talk openly about any concerns or goals.

If any dental issues are spotted, your dentist will restore and improve your smile. We'll create a personalized treatment plan to address your needs.

We'll give you plenty of time to discuss your smile goals. You can ask Dr. Shumate about our cosmetic dentistry options, like teeth whitening to brighten your smile or veneers to hide imperfections.

You Smile Will Look & Feel Great After Your Checkup

You can achieve good oral health with consistent checkups. Regular cleanings and exams can help you maintain strong teeth and gums throughout your life.

Here is what you can expect during your appointment:

  • Our team will discuss your oral and medical histories. We'll check for any changes to your mouth if you are an existing patient.
  • Your dentist will perform a complete exam of your teeth and gums. We check for cavities, gum disease, and other issues.
  • If necessary, we'll take digital X-rays to spot issues invisible to the naked eye.
  • Your dental hygienist will thoroughly remove the plaque and tartar buildup you miss at home.
  • The hygienist will also polish your teeth to eliminate any surface stains. It makes your teeth feel smooth and clean.
  • We may recommend fluoride treatments to strengthen your enamel and help prevent cavities.

Stay on top of your oral health with dental cleanings and exams in Wilmington.

5 out of 5 stars - 704 votes

5 Stars (704 Reviews)

Read Why Patients Love Us

Patients appreciate the special care they receive from our team. Check out what they have to say!

5

1st day here was great! Staff were all super nice. Really liked chatting with the dentists as well as the dental assistants. Did a really good job of cleaning and photographing my teeth. They were all super friendly! And then there is the fact that Dr Shumate was the only dentist around here...
1st day here was great! Staff were all super nice. Really liked chatting with the dentists as well as the dental assistants. Did a really good job of cleaning and photographing my teeth. They were all super friendly! And then there is the fact that Dr Shumate was the only dentist around here that was able to repair a difficult / complex issue with my wifes teeth (dealing with severe allergies to Novocaine) - so yeah, needless to say, have been hopeful and highly impressed. Highly recommended!!

5

My husband and I wanted a Dentist closer to home. Wilmington traffic is unbearable! Dr. Shumate's office is only 15 min. away from home. We really lucked up. Dr. Shumate provides cosmetic dentistry, places dental implants, and offers family Dentistry. I visited Dr. Shumate, thinking I would...
My husband and I wanted a Dentist closer to home. Wilmington traffic is unbearable! Dr. Shumate's office is only 15 min. away from home. We really lucked up. Dr. Shumate provides cosmetic dentistry, places dental implants, and offers family Dentistry. I visited Dr. Shumate, thinking I would start there, but I also had to see an oral surgeon. Nope, Dr. Shumate placed my dental implants, and I love Dr. Dana. He is a perfectionist, kind, and a gentleman. Of course, my better half sees Dr. Lauren and is so happy with her work. He also enjoys going into their office. We both do, the staff is professional and well-trained. While the receptionists are respectful and professional. I couldn't ask for more! Paula and Alan Lanier

5

From the time you walk till the time you walk out you feel like family. As a nervous patient the entire staff made me feel at ease. Dr Shumate is very kind and takes the time to make sure you are well taken care of. And yes I took a fresh baked cookie from the lobby! Nice touch!

5

I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to...
I went in for my 6 month cleaning yesterday. The hygienist, Lindsey, was running behind, but worked very efficiently to perform my cleaning. She was thorough, and did a great job. The office personnel is always friendly and welcoming. Dr. Shumate is kind and understanding. I’ve been going to their office for nearly 10 years. If there are ever any issues, they work well to resolve whatever needs attention,

5

The entire team was incredibly kind, patient, and professional from start to finish. They went out of their way to provide extra care and make sure I felt comfortable as a nervous patient, which I really appreciated. You can tell they genuinely care about their patients. Highly recommend.

5

Dr. Lauren is an excellent addition to Porter’s Neck Dentistry. I had a very nervous teen getting her first cavity filled. Dr. Lauren took time to answer every one of her questions seriously and reassuringly. She worked quick! My daughter left smiling and feeling confident!

5

A wonderful experience. The waiting room is nice, updated and clean, the ladies at the desk are super professional and will help you with all your insurance and payment options. My dental hygienist was super nice, friendly and understanding of my needs being an anxious dental patient! She...
A wonderful experience. The waiting room is nice, updated and clean, the ladies at the desk are super professional and will help you with all your insurance and payment options. My dental hygienist was super nice, friendly and understanding of my needs being an anxious dental patient! She took extra time and care with my teeth which I really appreciated! She made sure I was comfortable. Dr. Dana Shumate is top notch and really friendly! He really knows his stuff but also is kind and genuine. If you want a new dental experience check out this practice, it’s a pleasure going there and especially if you are an anxious patient! 😁

5

Great experience! I was very impressed with the high technology they had available. The staff was totally awesome; very friendly and accommodating. I am grateful that I have found A new dentist here in Wilmington!

Patient Resources

Commonly Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings and Exams

Why should I get a dental exam if I’m not in pain?
Putting off dental appointments until pain appears can lead to serious dental problems. Not all issues cause discomfort right away, so they might go unnoticed. Routine dental visits help catch these concerns early, allowing for less invasive, more cost-effective treatments.
Do dental cleanings hurt?
During a dental cleaning, plaque, tartar, and stains are removed from your teeth. You may notice some pressure or a vibrating feeling, but it won't be painful. If your gums or teeth are sensitive, the hygienist can adjust their technique to make sure you feel comfortable. If you are still concerned about discomfort, ask about our sedation options.
How often should I get a dental cleaning and exam?
Generally, scheduling a dental cleaning and exam every six months is best for most patients. This regular care allows us to monitor your mouth for any changes and treat problems early, keeping your smile healthy and strong. Your dentist will review the ideal frequency for checkups, based on your needs.