General Cleaning
60-90min
Why Regular Professional Dental Cleanings at Amity Dentistry Are Essential for a Healthy Smile
Your oral health is a big part of your overall well-being. At Amity Dentistry, we know that routine professional cleanings are about more than just keeping your teeth white—they’re your first line of defense against cavities, gum disease, and even long-term health complications. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for your regular check-up, here’s why professional cleanings matter and what you can expect when you walk through our doors.
What Is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. Our dental hygienists use special instruments to clean those hard-to-reach areas around your teeth and gums that regular brushing and flossing often miss. Even if you take great care of your teeth at home, a professional cleaning helps maintain healthy gums and prevent future dental issues.
At Amity Dentistry, we use gentle, thorough techniques tailored to each patient. Our goal is always to make your visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
What Happens During Your Cleaning?
Your visit will typically begin with a quick chat about your oral health habits, any concerns you might have, and updates to your medical history. Then, your hygienist will begin the cleaning process:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using a scaler, we remove sticky plaque and hardened tartar that has built up over time.
- Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning: After scaling, we polish your teeth with a high-powered brush and special toothpaste to remove surface stains.
- Flossing: We floss between your teeth to catch any lingering debris and check for signs of inflammation or bleeding.
- Rinse and Fluoride (if needed): You’ll rinse out your mouth, and we may apply fluoride to help strengthen your enamel and protect against future decay.
We’ll also take digital X-rays if needed, examine your teeth for early signs of decay, and perform a quick oral cancer screening. It’s a comprehensive check-up rolled into a single, convenient visit.
The Benefits of Routine Cleanings
Scheduling a dental cleaning every six months offers benefits that go far beyond a sparkling smile:
1. Prevents Gum Disease
Plaque that sits on the gumline can harden into tartar, which leads to gingivitis (early-stage gum disease). If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can result in tooth loss. Regular cleanings help keep your gums healthy and prevent infections.
2. Catches Issues Early
During your cleaning, our team checks for early signs of cavities, cracked teeth, receding gums, or other potential problems. Detecting issues early means easier, more affordable treatments later on.
3. Brightens Your Smile
Everyday foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and wine can stain your teeth. A professional polishing removes many of these surface stains, giving your teeth a cleaner, whiter appearance.
4. Freshens Breath
Bad breath is often caused by bacteria hiding between your teeth or under the gums. A deep cleaning helps eliminate these bacteria and gives you fresher breath.
5. Supports Overall Health
Oral health is closely connected to heart health, diabetes, and respiratory conditions. Cleanings help reduce the inflammation that can contribute to chronic health problems.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
Most patients benefit from a cleaning every six months, but some may need them more often depending on their oral health. If you have a history of gum disease or buildup, we may recommend cleanings every three to four months to help maintain stability and prevent flare-ups.
Your Comfort Is Our Priority
We understand that going to the dentist can be intimidating for some patients. That’s why we go out of our way to create a welcoming, stress-free environment. From our calming front office to our gentle, understanding dental team, we’re here to make sure your visit is smooth and comfortable every step of the way.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today
Keeping up with professional cleanings is one of the easiest and most important things you can do for your health. At Amity Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you protect your smile for years to come.
Ready to schedule your visit? Book an Appointment below!