Take care of your teeth and gums
Routine cleanings are one of the most important ways to maintain your oral health. They protect more than just your teeth, they also keep your gums, tongue, and other parts of your mouth healthy.
Cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and persistent bad breath. Dental hygienists have the tools and training to reach areas that brushing and flossing alone cannot.
Regular cleanings also allow the dental team to monitor your oral health and catch small issues before they become serious or costly. In addition, cleanings can brighten your smile by reducing surface stains from coffee, tea, and everyday eating and drinking.
Cleanings help:
- Remove plaque, the sticky bacteria filled film that damages enamel
- Eliminate tartar buildup, which can lead to gum inflammation
- Gently polish away stains and discoloration
- Identify signs of gum recession, cracked teeth, or early infection
What happens during a teeth cleaning?
Gum health
Your gums play a vital role in supporting your teeth and maintaining a healthy smile. During your visit, we take time to examine your gums, tongue, and overall mouth. We focus especially on the gumline, looking for signs of irritation or inflammation. And don’t worry, we will never shame you for your flossing habits. We are just here to help.
Plaque and tartar removal
Plaque is soft and sticky, but if it is not removed, it hardens into tartar. Tartar is tougher, darker in color, and often settles along the gumline where brushing and flossing may miss it. A hygienist uses professional instruments to gently scale away both plaque and tartar, reaching places that are often overlooked at home. Once your teeth are clean, we polish them to remove surface stains and leave your smile feeling fresh and smooth.
Dentist exam
After your cleaning, the dentist will review your chart and X-rays and perform a thorough exam. We look for signs of decay, gum disease, or any patterns that could point to larger issues. Your dentist may recommend further care or share advice to improve your brushing or flossing routine. If you have any concerns, like sensitivity or pain, this is the perfect time to bring them up.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients benefit from a cleaning and exam every six months. If you have a specific dental condition, we may recommend more frequent visits. In some cases, we can space appointments out further depending on your needs or insurance plan.
Call us right away. Cleanings are a good time to catch problems early, but if you are experiencing pain, don’t wait. Early treatment can prevent a small issue from becoming a bigger one.
Yes. Your oral health includes more than just teeth. We want to make sure your gums, jaw, and oral tissues are in good shape. We also check that your dentures are fitting well and are still in good condition.
Most cleanings take about 30 to 60 minutes. You will be seated comfortably in a reclining chair while we do the work.
Yes. Use tartar control toothpaste with fluoride, floss daily to clean between your teeth, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacteria. These habits go a long way in keeping tartar under control.
Yes, you can eat right after a regular cleaning. It is best to avoid acidic or abrasive foods for a little while. If you had a fluoride treatment during your appointment, wait about 30 minutes before eating or drinking.
Absolutely. Brushing and flossing daily is the best way to maintain the results of your cleaning and keep your smile healthy between visits.
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