Cleanings and Preventive Dentistry

Why are dental cleanings so important?

No matter how well you brush and floss your teeth, nothing can match the power of professional dental cleaning. Having your teeth cleaned by a dental practitioner ensures you leave with a sparkling, healthy smile.

Teeth cleanings occur during the same visit as routine dental exams. These appointments provide an opportunity for your dentist to check for signs of dental decay and gum disease. They’re also an important way to screen for oral cancers.

Most people benefit from coming in twice a year for professional teeth cleaning. This schedule allows preventive dentistry treatments that ensure no condition develops beyond the early stages.

What happens during professional dental cleanings?

When you come to Shara Miller, DDS, for your cleaning appointment, the process begins with a quick examination of your teeth and gum tissue. A special dental tool called a scaler removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, including the area just beneath your gum line. 

The next step uses a powered brush and special gritty paste to remove all traces of plaque and bacteria. This is the step that creates the smooth, polished feel of professional teeth cleaning. 

Your practitioner then performs professional flossing to clean the areas between your teeth. Next, you thoroughly rinse your mouth with water. Your practitioner also discusses whether a fluoride treatment is appropriate.

What are deep cleanings?

A deep cleaning is also referred to as scaling and planing. This process is necessary if plaque and bacteria have advanced beneath your gum line to create gum disease. 

During a deep cleaning, your practitioner uses special tools to remove plaque and tartar within “pockets” of gum tissue that’s pulled away from the surface of your teeth. The planing portion involves altering the surface of your tooth roots to make it harder for plaque and bacteria to take hold.

Your dentist checks your gum tissue during each dental exam and cleaning. If gingivitis or periodontitis is present, a scaling and root planing procedure is often the first treatment. 

If you’re ready to schedule your next professional dental cleaning, call or click today to find a time that meets your busy schedule.