Cleanings
Keep your smile fresh, healthy, and bright.
Even with great brushing and flossing habits at home, plaque and tartar can build up in areas that are hard to reach.
That’s why routine dental cleanings are essential—not only to keep your teeth looking and feeling great, but to protect your gums, prevent cavities, and support overall oral health.
Why Are Regular Cleanings So Important?
Dental cleanings do far more than polish your teeth. They are one of the best defenses against:
- Tooth decay – by removing plaque and tartar that lead to cavities
- Gum disease – early signs can be spotted and treated before they progress
- Bad breath – often caused by bacteria buildup below the gumline
- Staining – cleanings help remove surface stains from food, drinks, and tobacco
- Overall health risks – studies show links between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, and more
We recommend cleanings every six months for most patients, but more frequent visits may be needed if you’re managing gum disease or have specific risk factors.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a simple and comfortable visit that includes several key steps:
Examination
Your hygienist will check your teeth and gums for plaque, tartar buildup, inflammation, and any signs of dental concerns.
Scaling and Polishing
Plaque and tartar are gently removed, and your teeth are polished to smooth the surface and remove minor surface stains.
Flossing
Each space between your teeth will be carefully flossed to clear out any remaining debris and ensure a complete clean.
Fluoride Treatment
A fluoride gel may be applied (optional) to strengthen enamel and protect your teeth from decay, especially if you’re at higher risk.
We recommend cleanings every six months for most patients, but more frequent visits may be needed if you’re managing gum disease or have specific risk factors.
The Importance of Gum Health
Your gums are just as important as your teeth! If you have signs of gum disease—such as bleeding, swelling, or gum recession—we may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria below the surface and help your gums heal.
Healthy gums are the foundation of a strong smile, and regular cleanings help keep them that way.
How to Maintain Clean Teeth Between Visits
A good cleaning at the dental office only goes so far—what you do at home matters just as much. We’ll go over the best practices for your specific needs, but in general:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth
- Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse if recommended
- Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of gum disease
- Eat a balanced diet low in sugary snacks and drinks
We’ll also help you choose the best toothbrush, floss, or oral hygiene tools to match your lifestyle and needs.
Clean Teeth, Healthy Life
Routine cleanings are one of the easiest ways to stay ahead of problems and keep your smile bright and confident. Plus, they’re quick, comfortable, and give you that fresh-mouth feeling everyone loves.