7449 East Osborn Road #4 Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
Why Are Professional Cleanings So Important
The top two reasons adults lose teeth are cavities and gum disease, which is why, on top of a good dental hygiene routine, regular professional cleaning appointments are so crucial. Even the best daily brushing and flossing won’t get every bit of plaque between teeth and along the gum lines, and that plaque eventually hardens into tartar. Professional cleaning gets rid of all that tartar and keeps your teeth and gums on track to stay healthy.
Beyond tartar removal, professional cleanings give Dr. Brittain the opportunity to examine your mouth for early signs of trouble — including cavities, gum inflammation, cracked teeth, and even oral cancer. Catching these issues early almost always means simpler, less expensive treatment.
How Often Should I Come in for Cleanings
In general, patients should schedule basic cleaning appointments twice a year, but it’s important to talk to Dr. Brittain about your individual dental health needs. Patients with risk factors for developing gum disease may need more frequent cleanings, and diabetic patients often require as many as four cleanings per year to fight back against the attendant oral health difficulties.
You may benefit from more frequent visits if any of the following apply to you:
- You have a history of gum disease or have previously been treated for periodontitis
- You smoke or use tobacco products, which significantly increase your risk of gum and bone deterioration
- You are pregnant, as hormonal changes can make gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection
- You have a weakened immune system or are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy
- It has been more than a year since your last professional cleaning
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning
Many patients are surprised by how thorough and comfortable a professional cleaning at Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale can be. Here is what you can expect from a typical appointment:
- Review of Your Dental and Medical History — Dr. Brittain and our hygiene team will note any changes to your health or medications that may affect your oral care.
- Physical Examination — Your teeth, gums, and soft tissues are examined for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns before cleaning begins.
- Scaling — Specialized instruments are used to carefully remove tartar and plaque buildup from all tooth surfaces and along the gum line.
- Polishing — Your teeth are polished with a gritty paste that removes surface stains and leaves your enamel feeling smooth and clean.
- Flossing — A thorough flossing removes any remaining debris from between teeth and checks for any areas of sensitivity or bleeding.
- Fluoride Treatment — In some cases, a fluoride treatment is applied to help strengthen enamel and protect against cavities between visits.
- Personalized Home Care Guidance — Our team will share tips tailored to your specific needs to help you maintain your results at home.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning With Dentistry of Old Town Scottsdale
If it’s been six months or longer since your last appointment, what are you waiting for? Give us a call at 480-719-6994 or send us a email today to schedule your next one. We want to give our patients all the tools they need to fight back against cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a professional dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains, followed by polishing and flossing to keep your teeth and gums healthy.Are dental cleanings painful?
Cleanings are usually painless, but mild sensitivity can occur if you have gum inflammation or heavy tartar buildup.Does dental insurance cover routine cleanings?
Many U.S. dental insurance plans fully cover preventive cleanings, making them an affordable way to maintain oral health.Why are regular dental cleanings important?
Routine cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath while supporting overall health and early detection of dental issues.How often should I get a professional dental cleaning?
Most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months, but some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs.Are dental cleanings safe during pregnancy?
Yes, dental cleanings are safe and recommended during pregnancy, as they help reduce the risk of gum disease and support overall health.