Take Care Of Your Teeth And Gums
Regular dental cleanings and checkups are vital for maintaining the health of your teeth, gums, and entire mouth. Professional cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria that contribute to cavities, gum disease, and persistent bad breath—reaching areas that daily brushing and flossing often miss.
Thorough cleanings and exams also allow your dental hygienist and dentist to monitor your oral health closely. Early detection and treatment, or even prevention, of potential problems can help avoid pain and expensive treatments down the line.
In addition to health benefits, routine cleanings can naturally enhance the brightness of your smile, often eliminating the need for whitening treatments.
Benefits of routine teeth cleaning include:
- Removing plaque, the sticky bacterial layer that damages enamel.
- Eliminating tartar, the hardened form of plaque that can lead to gum issues.
- Getting rid of stains caused by beverages like coffee and tea.
- Checking for signs of receding gums, cracked teeth, or other issues that may indicate infections or diseases.
What Happens During A Teeth Cleaning?
Gum Health
Your gums play an essential role in maintaining the strength of your teeth and the appearance of your smile, yet they are often overlooked. During the exam, we carefully assess your gums, teeth, tongue, and other parts of your mouth. Particular attention is given to the gum line to ensure there are no signs of inflammation or gum disease. And don’t worry—we won’t critique your flossing habits too harshly.
Plaque & Tartar Removal
Plaque, a sticky film that naturally develops on your teeth, can harden into tartar if not removed with proper care. Tartar, which is often darker and harder to reach, tends to build up near the gum line. With expert tools and techniques, our dental hygienist will thoroughly clean these areas, eliminating plaque and tartar. Afterward, your teeth will be polished to remove stains and restore their shine.
Dentist Exam
Once your teeth are cleaned, it’s the perfect opportunity for a dental exam. Your dentist will review your oral health history and x-rays to identify any potential issues or ongoing concerns. Recommendations for treatments or advice on preventing tooth decay, inflammation, or gum problems may be provided. We are here to answer your questions and discuss any pain, sensitivity, or dental challenges you’ve experienced.
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
We generally recommend booking cleanings and checkups every six months. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits based on specific needs, or you may need to schedule further apart depending on factors like insurance coverage or budget constraints.
Don’t wait to seek help! If you’re feeling pain or discomfort in your mouth, contact us right away. Although cleanings are focused on prevention, you don’t need to wait for your next appointment to address any issues. Early attention can prevent a minor problem from escalating.
Definitely. Dental checkups are important for your overall oral health, not just your teeth. We’ll assess your gums, tongue, bones, and the fit and condition of your dentures to ensure everything is in good shape.
Most cleanings last between 30 minutes and an hour, allowing you to relax comfortably in the dental chair during the process.
Use a fluoride toothpaste that targets tartar control. Even with excellent brushing skills, only dental floss can effectively remove plaque from between your teeth and prevent tartar in hard-to-reach spots. Incorporate daily rinsing and an antiseptic mouthwash into your routine to fight plaque-causing bacteria.
You can eat following a regular cleaning but try to avoid acidic or abrasive foods and drinks. If fluoride treatment was applied, wait at least 30 minutes before consuming anything.
Brushing and flossing after a cleaning helps maintain the results of your dental visit and supports ongoing oral health.