Overview
The everyday dentistry that keeps big problems small
Most dental emergencies start as something small that nobody caught: a soft spot between two teeth, gums that bleed when you floss, a filling that is starting to leak. Regular visits exist to find those things while the fix is still quick, comfortable and inexpensive.
At All Smiles General Dentistry in North Miami, a checkup is not a rushed polish-and-go. Our hygienists take the time to clean thoroughly, screen for gum disease and oral cancer, and capture digital X-rays and intraoral photos when they are due. Then Dr. Shanna Bernkrant walks you through what she sees on the screen in your room.
We are a family practice, so children, teens, parents and grandparents are all welcome. Many families book back-to-back appointments so everyone is done in one trip.
At a glance
- Exams and professional cleanings, usually every 6 months
- Low-radiation digital X-rays and intraoral photos
- Oral cancer screening at every checkup
- Tooth-colored, mercury-free fillings
- Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) for gum disease
- Any PPO or Medicare dental plan accepted
Treatment by Dr. Shanna Bernkrant, DMD at our West Dixie Highway office.
Inside a checkup
What a routine visit covers
Cleaning
Plaque and hardened tartar are removed above and below the gumline, then teeth are polished. Tartar cannot be brushed off at home — it has to be removed professionally.
Exam & X-rays
Dr. B checks every tooth, your gums, bite and soft tissue. X-rays reveal decay between teeth, bone loss and infections that are invisible to the eye.
Screenings
Gum pocket measurements track periodontal health over time, and an oral cancer screening looks for unusual tissue. If something looks off, we can do a brush biopsy the same day.
Fillings
Small cavities are restored with tooth-colored composite bonded to the tooth — no mercury, and far less drilling than old-style silver fillings.
Gum therapy
If pockets are deep, a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) removes bacteria from the root surfaces so the gums can reattach and heal.
Prevention for kids
Gentle first visits, cleanings and home-care coaching that help children grow up without fear of the dentist.
Your schedule
How often should you come in?
Every mouth is different. Here is how we usually tailor it.
- Every 6 monthsThe standard for healthy gums and low cavity risk — cleaning, exam and X-rays as needed.
- Every 3–4 monthsRecommended after gum disease treatment, during pregnancy, or for patients with diabetes or heavy tartar buildup.
- As soon as possibleBleeding gums, a new sensitivity, bad breath that won’t quit or a broken filling — don’t wait for your next recall.
Cost & coverage
Paying for checkups and cleanings in North Miami
We accept any PPO dental plan and any Medicare dental plan, and we file the claim for you. Coverage for checkups and cleanings depends on your plan, so we verify your benefits and give you a written estimate before treatment starts — no surprise bills.
No insurance? Your consultation is free, and our in-office savings plan and payment options spread the cost into manageable pieces. We do not publish fixed prices online because the right treatment — and the cost — depends on what we find at your exam.
Most PPO plans cover preventive visits at or near 100%, and many Medicare Advantage plans with dental benefits include cleanings and exams. New patients without insurance can take advantage of our new patient special.
FAQ
General & Family Dentistry questions, answered
Do I really need X-rays every visit?
No. We follow your risk level, not a fixed schedule. Most adults need bitewing X-rays about once a year and a full set every few years. Digital X-rays use a fraction of the radiation of film.
My gums bleed when I floss. Is that normal?
Bleeding is the earliest sign of gingivitis. It is usually reversible with a professional cleaning and better home care — but left alone it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds your teeth.
Do you replace old silver fillings?
When an old amalgam filling is cracked, leaking or decayed underneath, we replace it with tooth-colored material. Ask Dr. B about the protective steps we take during removal.
How young should a child’s first visit be?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by the first birthday or within six months of the first tooth. Early visits are short, friendly and mostly about building comfort.
Do you accept Medicare dental plans?
Yes. We accept any Medicare dental plan — that usually means a Medicare Advantage plan with dental benefits, since Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care. Call with your member ID and we will confirm what your plan covers.
Overdue for a cleaning? Let’s reset the clock.
Whether it has been six months or six years, we will meet you where you are — no judgment.
Keep exploring
Related care at our North Miami office
Holistic & Mercury-Free Dentistry
Metal-free, biocompatible materials and a conservative, whole-body approach.
Crowns & Bridges
Rebuild cracked or worn teeth and close gaps with tooth-colored restorations.
Emergency Dentist
Toothache, broken tooth or swelling? Call — we make room for same-day visits.
Teeth Whitening
Professional in-office and take-home whitening that is safe for enamel.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Straighten crowded or gapped teeth with removable, nearly invisible aligners.
Dentures & Partials
Comfortable full and partial dentures, relines and implant-supported options.