Dental Cleanings
Professional Dental Cleanings: Your Path to a Healthier Smile
Thousands of patients trust Southeastern Dental Center for their professional cleanings every year. Our expert team will remove harmful buildup that at-home brushing alone can't reach, protecting your smile from cavities and gum disease
Schedule your next dental cleaning today. Same- or next-day appointments are available!
What to Expect During a Routine Dental Cleaning.
Professional dental cleanings are simple procedures but can have a big impact on your oral health and your smile. Depending on your oral health, we recommend having our highly credentialed hygienists perform a professional cleaning every 4 to 6 months.
1. Deep Cleaning and Scaling
Using specialized instruments, we'll gently remove accumulated plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gum line. This crucial step eliminates bacteria that regular brushing can't reach.
2. Professional Polishing
We use a high-powered rotating brush with specially formulated paste to remove surface stains and create a smooth, glossy finish that helps prevent future plaque buildup.
3. Preventive Fluoride Treatment
A protective fluoride solution strengthens your tooth enamel, helping prevent cavities and decay between visits. We apply this using either a brush or comfortable foam tray.
4. Comprehensive Dental Exam
Using advanced tools including a dental mirror and probe, we check for signs of decay and measure gum pockets to detect early signs of periodontal disease.
5. Oral Cancer Screening
We perform a thorough examination of your mouth, neck, and lymph nodes, checking for any unusual changes that might require further attention.
The Importance of a Professional Dental Cleaning
While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they can't do everything. Here's why professional cleanings at Southeastern Dental Center are crucial:
Tartar Can Only Be Removed Professionally
Even with perfect brushing, plaque naturally hardens into tartar within 24-72 hours. Once hardened, only professional dental tools can remove it.
Reach Hidden Areas
Professional cleanings reach spots you can't access at home – like deep between teeth and below the gum line, where harmful bacteria hide and thrive.
Detect Problem Early
Regular cleanings allow us to spot potential issues before they become painful or expensive – something you can't do with a bathroom mirror.
Think of it this way: Home care is like regularly washing your car, while professional cleanings are like taking it in for maintenance. Both are necessary to keep things running smoothly and prevent bigger problems down the road.
After Your Dental Cleaning Appointment
In conjunction with regular dental visits, you should continue your oral hygiene routine at home. This will help keep your teeth clean and prevent plaque and tartar from building up and causing more severe dental issues.
A good dental hygiene routine includes, but is not limited to:
- Regular brushing at least twice a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste
- Flossing between your teeth at least once a day
- Eating a healthy diet and avoiding sugary foods and drinks
- Limiting your intake of alcohol and tobacco products