Hygiene

Our Dental Hygienists are here to help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. They work with our doctors to examine patients for any signs of oral diseases, such as periodontal disease or gingivitis, and provide preventative treatment.

Meet our Hygienists

Prophylaxis Cleaning

Dental prophylaxis cleanings, also known as a regular teeth cleanings, are one of the most important dental treatments in the prevention of gum disease and tooth decay. They consist of thoroughly cleaning the area above the gum line of all plaque and tartar that may have accumulated since your last visit, resulting in the removal of stains, fresher breath, and improved oral health. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends regular teeth cleanings twice annually as a preventative measure, but is recommended every 3-4 months for those who suffer from periodontitis.

Scaling & Root Planing

Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure which removes plaque and tartar stuck above and below the gumline. Scaling is the process of using a scaling instrument to scrape off existing plaque and tartar. Root planing is the process of smoothing the tooth’s root surfaces, allowing the gum tissue to heal and reattach itself to the tooth. This procedure is necessary after the gums, bones, and surrounding tissues have become damaged due to periodontal disease.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as periodontitis and gum disease, affects the gum tissue and bone that surrounds your teeth. It is caused when a gum infection called gingivitis is left untreated. Periodontal disease affects the connection points between your teeth and gums, creating pockets between the teeth and gums where more food and bacteria can easily accumulate. This can lead to recessed gum tissue and significant bone loss. When periodontal disease has reached this point, our endodontist can treat the gums to prevent the condition from worsening. This treatment is used in conjunction with three month periodontal maintenance visits (deep gum cleanings) with one of our hygienists.

More Hygiene Services

Dental Exam

A dental exam is a routine check of your overall oral health. It consists of your hygienist checking behind and between your teeth for any warning signs of cavities, measure the depth of the pockets in your gums around your teeth, as well as checking your gums for swelling, redness, or sores. This is also when your hygienist will be taking any necessary x-rays to examine areas that are not visible with the naked eye.

Sealants

Sealants are a common preventative measure that is taken when your hygienist identifies certain teeth that are prone to decay. Deeper pits and fissures on the teeth are more likely to trap food and plaque which will eventually lead to decay if not removed. Sealants are placed in these pits and fissures to create a barrier which prevents this harmful buildup.

Oral Cancer Screening

Initial stages of oral cancer may not be noticed by the patient, so your hygienist will look closer for early signs of lesions, sores, or ulcers. They will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, the insides of your lips and cheeks, the sides of your tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. This exam happens at every routine dental visit.

Hate Impressions?

We don't blame you. That's why ECDD uses iTero technology to digitally scan your teeth. This revolutionary technology takes less time to complete, is more comfortable, and is more accurate than traditional impression material.

This means that procedures that utilize the power of iTero will be digitally perfect. Every time.

Hate Impressions?

We don't blame you. That's why ECDD uses iTero technology to digitally scan your teeth. This revolutionary technology takes less time to complete, is more comfortable, and is more accurate than traditional impression material.

This means that procedures that utilize the power of iTero will be digitally perfect. Every time.

Same-Visit Dentistry

No messy impressions. No temporary crowns. No long wait for your permanent restoration. With CEREC, getting your teeth restored is faster, easier, and more convenient. After same-day treatment, you walk out with your permanent restoration, and the confidence in knowing that you have the pinnacle of dental science right in your smile.

Same-Visit Dentistry

No messy impressions. No temporary crowns. No long wait for your permanent restoration. With CEREC, getting your teeth restored is faster, easier, and more convenient. After same-day treatment, you walk out with your permanent restoration, and the confidence in knowing that you have the pinnacle of dental science right in your smile.

Schedule an Appointment

Hear what Patients
think of ECDD

     Excellent  
     Based on 131 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Antonette Smith 
 April 1, 2021.
 
 
  I saw Dr. Barbosa today, she is so kind and gentle. She made me feel  so comfortable.  The office is stream Lee clean and the staff is always so friendly. I highly recommend!
  
 
       
   Haley Bigelow 
 March 25, 2021.
 
 
  I usually hate going to the dentist or any doctor but I like going east coast dental design. The staff is very friendly and talkative and they all have a great sense of humor as well so i’m not so focused on why im there! All procedures ive had here have gone very smoothly and the staff is always putting my comfort and feelings first. I have never seen a rude or grumpy person in the office.
  
 
       
   Lynne Chipman 
 March 25, 2021.
 
 
  I have always taken care of my teeth my whole life. I'm older now and my teeth had suffered from stress, acid reflux etc. I came to Dr. Garcia for a root canal, my dentist of 25 years, his office doesn't do root canals. I had to search for a Dr. during Covid. Thankfully Dr. Garcia's office took me right in. My best friend had referred her to me to her. Well, I Love my teeth again. I Love the way they feel. Dr. Garcia is a amazing artistic dentist. I never imagined  the differences and feel of my teeth could happen. Another great thing( my teeth & feel of them, the best) my bank account did not suffer. I highly recommend Dr. Garcia and her wonderful staff!
  
 
       
   Andrea Duncan 
 March 12, 2021.
 
 
  As always the staff is genuinely friendly and welcoming as well as professional. The facility is spotless and state of the art.  The quality of care you will receive is exemplary
  
 
       
   Vanessa Viveiros 
 March 8, 2021.
 
 
  The staff at East Coast Dental Drsign are absolutely wonderful. I have been to numerous dentists in the past trying to find the best one and they are it . Best people and best technology
  
 
       
   Barbara Hultman 
 March 5, 2021.
 
 
  The dentist is my biggest fear.  Going to East Coast Dental was the best decision I have made.  Dr Ally is so gentle and lets you know what she is doing step by step.  She is extremely fussy and wants to get everything perfect which is great for her clients.  I would highly recommend them to anyone.  Their entire staff is friendly and makes you feel like your the    Only one there.  From the moment you step in until their final goodbye you are treated like royalty.

     Excellent  
     Based on 25 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   Candice Dyer 
 January 9, 2021.
 
 
 recommends I have been coming here for just about 20 years. I actually enjoy going and not dread it. Dr. Barbosa is amazing also!! The entire staff is friendly and upbeat. Lots of beautiful smiles ? Thank you ECDD!!
  
 
       
   Juliana Mills 
 January 1, 2021.
 
 
 recommends The entire staff is amazing! I strongly recommend East Coast Dental Design.
  
 
       
   Matt Dauwer 
 December 12, 2020.
 
 
 recommends This place is amazing. Best dental experience I’ve ever had. Friendliest and most professional people you could ask for!
  
 
       
   Tammy Shayne Millward 
 May 20, 2020.
 
 
 recommends Dr. Garcia is the BEST! I have been a patient in her office for over 20 years and there is no where else I'd rather be when I am in need of dental work. I had an emergency and as always she was right there for me! She is AMAZING at what she does. I DON'T USUALLY DO REVIEWS but when someone is as dedicated to her patients as she is SHE DESERVES A HUGE THANK YOU! She is gentle, kind, caring and compassionate ! I don't even feel like I'm in a dental office when I go to her office. The ENTIRE STAFF is so welcoming, warm and willing to assist you with all of your needs. Your office ROCKS East Coast Dental Design!????????????
  
 
       
   Kandy House McKnight 
 October 14, 2019.
 
 
 recommends I couldn't be more pleased with the care and service I recieeved
at East Coast Dental design.
The office is beatitful and has all the latest technology. 
The staff was very professional, kind and thoughtful.
I highly recommend Dr. Garcia and thank her for my great smile!
  
 
       
   John Henriques 
 August 30, 2019.
 
 
 recommends I’m extremely happy with my many experiences at East Coast Dental. I’m always greeted promptly with a smile and everyone I’ve encountered seems genuinely concerned with my health and comfort. With a full range of general and cosmetic dentistry available, it’s convenient and time saving.
  
 
       
   Patti Amaral 
 July 30, 2019.
 
 
 recommends Helpful with all your dental problems
  
 
       
   Helen Dustin 
 June 26, 2019.
 
 
 recommends Quality of care and pleasantness of all employees.
  
 
       
   Bill Stoddard 
 May 21, 2019.
 
 
 recommends Great doctor and staff . They do a fantastic job with your families dental care.
  
 
       
   Lena Melo 
 May 14, 2019.
 
 
 recommends they make you feel right at home so friendly that your not nervous everyone in office are so professionally.