What Does a Professional Dental Cleaning Do?
Even with careful brushing and flossing, plaque builds up in places that are hard to reach. Over time it hardens into tartar (calculus), which bonds to the tooth and can only be removed with professional instruments.
Left in place, tartar irritates the gums and can lead to gingivitis, the early and reversible stage of gum disease, and eventually to periodontitis, which damages the bone that supports your teeth. Regular professional cleanings remove these deposits before they cause lasting harm.
Why Regular Cleanings Matter
- Healthier Gums: Removing plaque and tartar reduces the inflammation behind bleeding, swollen, or tender gums.
- Fewer Surprises: Regular visits make it easier to spot cavities, worn fillings, and gum changes while they are still small and simpler to treat.
- A Brighter, Fresher Smile: Polishing lifts surface stains from coffee, tea, and everyday foods, and clearing bacterial buildup helps with persistent bad breath.
- Support for Your Dental Work: Crowns, veneers, and implants do best when the teeth and gums around them stay clean.
What to Expect During Your Cleaning
- 01
A Review of Your Health & Concerns
We start by updating your health history and asking about any sensitivity, bleeding, or changes you have noticed.
- 02
Gum Assessment
We check the health of your gums and, when needed, measure the pockets around your teeth to see whether any deeper care is needed.
- 03
Scaling
Plaque and tartar are gently removed from around each tooth and along the gumline. Let us know if any area feels sensitive, and we will adjust.
- 04
Polishing
Your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth and clean.
- 05
Flossing & Home Care Guidance
We finish by flossing and sharing practical tips for the areas that need extra attention at home.
Which Type of Cleaning Do You Need?
The right cleaning depends on the health of your gums. We measure and explain what we find, then recommend the level of care that fits:
- Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Preventive care for healthy gums, removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains above and just below the gumline.
- Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning): For gum disease with deeper pockets, removing deposits below the gumline and smoothing the root surfaces so the gums can heal.
- Periodontal Maintenance: Ongoing cleanings at closer intervals for patients with a history of gum disease, to help keep it under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Take My Insurance?
We believe treatment decisions should be guided by your individual needs, not insurance restrictions. Our team is happy to assist with questions about treatment fees, insurance claims, and financing options.
- Fee-for-service, out-of-network practice
- Insurance claims submitted on your behalf as a courtesy
- Flexible financing through Cherry, subject to approval
- We do not accept Denti-Cal or HMO plans
Thank you. Our team will reply by email within one business day.
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