State Of The Art Smiles provides dental cleanings and exams for adults and children in Pickerington, OH. Dr. Aklilu Ameha checks for decay and gum disease, removes plaque and tartar, and shows you what he sees on screen.
Written by State Of The Art Smiles. Medically reviewed by Dr. Phillip Katz, DDS & Dr. Aklilu Ameha, DDS, dentists at State Of The Art Smiles. Last updated October 2026.
We explain what we find before we recommend anything
Maybe you’ve left a checkup with a treatment plan and no idea why. At State Of The Art Smiles, we show you the tooth, explain what we see, and discuss every reasonable option.
You decide what’s right for you, without pressure.
- 2 preventive visits a year for each family member, to catch decay and gum disease early
- Kids welcome from about age 2½, with exams, cleanings, x-rays, sealants, and fluoride
- Over 25 years caring for patients in Pickerington and Central Ohio
What a cleaning and exam includes
A cleaning and exam at State Of The Art Smiles includes a professional teeth cleaning, an exam, x-rays when you need them, and an oral cancer screening.
Professional teeth cleaning
Your hygienist removes plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) that brushing and flossing leave behind.
Exam with Dr. Ameha
Dr. Ameha checks your teeth and gums for decay, worn fillings, and signs of gum disease. An intraoral camera puts your own teeth on the screen while he explains what he sees.
Digital x-rays and scans
Our office uses digital x-rays, TRIOS digital scanning, and AI-assisted diagnostics. Dr. Ameha takes x-rays only when your exam calls for them.
Oral cancer screening
Dr. Ameha screens for signs of oral cancer as part of your preventive visit.
Bleeding gums and deep cleanings
Healthy gums never bleed. If your gums bleed when you brush, schedule an exam so your hygienist and dentist can evaluate the health of your gums.
State Of The Art Smiles treats gum disease with scaling and root planing, a deep cleaning that reaches below the gumline. Dr. Ameha refers advanced gum disease to a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in gums.
Cleanings and exams for kids
We like to see children when they’re about 2½ years old. Kids can come along to a parent’s cleaning first, explore the play area, and sit in the dental chair before their own visit.
At a child’s first visit, we schedule plenty of time, and kids see themselves on our TV screen through the intraoral camera. Our family dentistry page covers care for every age.
What patients say about their cleanings
★★★★★
“Everyone was extremely friendly. The hygienist was top notch. She did an excellent job cleaning my teeth while being delicate at the same time. The dentist was friendly and funny. They both took the time to explain things they were doing and seeing. The office staff was also super friendly. Highly recommend. I will be going back.”
– Michelle
★★★★★
“Everyone was very friendly from the time I walked in until I left, it was very welcoming. The doctor and hygienist were both efficient and gentle. I loved the water spray instead of scraping!”
– Sarah
★★★★★
“The dental hygienist was very gentle. She was quite knowledgeable when answering my questions. The dentist was very friendly and able to answer my questions.”
– Linda
Cleaning and exam frequently asked questions
How often do I need dental cleanings and exams in Pickerington?
State Of The Art Smiles schedules preventive appointments twice a year for each family member. Two visits a year help our team catch early signs of decay and gum disease.
How much do a cleaning and exam cost?
The cost of a cleaning and exam depends on the x-rays and care you need at that visit. State Of The Art Smiles accepts all PPO dental insurance plans, and our team helps you determine your benefits and coverage.
Patients who pay in full up front receive a 5% courtesy, and senior citizens who pay in full receive 10%. Our insurance and financing page lists every payment option.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
A routine dental cleaning is typically a comfortable visit. If you’re anxious or sensitive, tell our team, and we’ll offer headphones, blankets, or nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
Our sedation dentistry page explains more options.
My gums bleed when I brush. Is that a problem?
Yes. Healthy gums never bleed. Schedule a dental exam so your hygienist and dentist can evaluate your gums.
Do I need x-rays at every visit?
No. Dr. Ameha takes digital x-rays only when they’re necessary for your exam.
At what age should my child have a first dental visit?
We like to see children when they’re about 2½ years old. We’ve found a gradual introduction to the office works best for kids.
I haven't had a cleaning in years. What should I expect?
Expect an exam first and no judgment. Dr. Ameha shows you what he finds, explains your options, and builds a plan with you.
Start with a checkup, decide the rest later
State Of The Art Smiles schedules dental cleanings and exams in Pickerington Monday through Friday at 156 W Columbus St. We accept all PPO dental insurance plans, and you’ll see what we see before we recommend anything.
New Patients: (614) 265-8813
Current Patients: (614) 837-4506
