Professional Teeth Cleanings

Most dentists recommend a professional cleaning every six months, though some individuals may need more frequent cleanings depending on their oral health.

It is a common worry. Professional teeth cleanings are usually comfortable. You may feel mild discomfort, and this is more likely with sensitive teeth or gum disease. Your dentist or hygienist can change how they work. Just tell us, so we can help you feel more at ease.

It is a good question. Your home care may be good. Even so, plaque and tartar can build up in spots that are hard to reach. Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease, cavities and other mouth health problems. Care at home may not catch these.

A cleaning can take off stains on the surface and leave your teeth looking brighter. But it is not the same as a whitening treatment. If you want much whiter teeth, we can talk with you about professional teeth whitening.

Generally, yes. Professional teeth cleanings are usually safe during pregnancy, and we recommend them. Good oral health matters even more at this time. Changes in your hormones can raise your risk of gum disease.

Most dental insurance plans cover professional cleanings as part of care that keeps teeth healthy. They usually allow one or two cleanings per year. We suggest you check with your insurance provider to be sure.

After a cleaning, keep brushing and flossing as you normally do. Try to stay away from foods or drinks that stain, such as coffee or red wine, for a few hours. This helps your teeth keep that fresh, clean look.

Gum health is sorted into three main types. Here they are. Healthy, or Within Normal Limits - This means your gums are healthy and in good shape. There are very few signs of swelling. You usually come to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Gingivitis - This is the medical word for gums that are red and swollen. Plaque and tartar start to build up. Your body fights the germs and tries to clear them. Blood flow goes up, and cells that fight germs rush in. This makes the gums swell and bleed.

Periodontitis (also known as Gum Disease) - Sometimes the plaque and tartar are not cleaned off. Your body keeps fighting the germs and the build-up. This long-lasting problem causes bone loss between the teeth. Gum disease cannot be reversed. The gums cannot go back to healthy.

If it is left alone for a long time, so much bone can be lost that the teeth become loose in their sockets. Sometimes the teeth need to be taken out. See extractions.