Teeth Cleanings
Daily brushing and flossing can’t remove all plaque, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings eliminate stubborn buildup that leads to cavities, bad breath, and gum disease. This refreshing procedure leaves your mouth feeling noticeably cleaner with brighter teeth and healthier gums. Maintain your oral health with regular professional care. Schedule your cleaning appointment online or call us today.
Beyond what brushing can do
Benefits
People who maintain regular cleanings tell us they actually look forward to that fresh feeling afterward. That buildup you can feel with your tongue or slight staining between teeth? Completely removed, leaving your mouth noticeably cleaner than any home care alone.
Stain removal
Eliminate surface stains from coffee, tea, and wine that regular brushing can't fully address, brightening your smile.Tartar defense
Remove hardened plaque that brushing can't budge, preventing the irritation and inflammation that leads to gum disease.Breath freshening
Address persistent bad breath at its source by removing bacteria-harboring plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces.Problem spotting
Create an opportunity for early detection of small cavities, cracks, or gum issues before they become serious problems.
Frequently asked questions
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What are teeth cleanings?
Teeth cleanings are professional procedures where our dental hygienist removes plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth that you can’t clean off with regular brushing and flossing. During a cleaning, we use special instruments to scrape away hardened buildup, then polish your teeth to remove surface stains and make them smooth and shiny. This thorough cleaning helps prevent cavities and gum disease while leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
How often should I have teeth cleanings?
Most people should have professional teeth cleanings every six months to maintain good oral health. However, some patients need cleanings more frequently. If you have gum disease, build up tartar quickly, or have other risk factors, Dr. Fenton might recommend cleanings every 3-4 months. Regular cleanings help prevent problems and keep your smile looking and feeling its best.
Do teeth cleanings hurt?
Most patients find teeth cleanings comfortable, though you might feel some pressure or mild sensitivity. If you have sensitive teeth or haven’t had a cleaning in a while, you might experience some discomfort when we remove tartar buildup. Let us know if you feel any pain – we can use desensitizing gel or adjust our technique to make you more comfortable. Most people actually enjoy the fresh, smooth feeling afterward.
What's the difference between regular cleaning and deep cleaning?
Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar from above and slightly below the gum line, while deep cleanings go much further down into gum pockets. Regular cleanings are for people with healthy gums or mild gum inflammation. Deep cleanings (scaling and root planing) are needed when you have gum disease with deeper pockets around your teeth. Dr. Fenton will determine which type of cleaning you need based on your gum health.
How long do teeth cleanings take?
A routine teeth cleaning typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on how much buildup you have. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning or you have heavy tartar buildup, it might take longer. The cleaning includes removing plaque and tartar, polishing your teeth, and flossing. We’ll also discuss your oral hygiene routine and answer any questions you have.
What should I expect after a teeth cleaning?
Your teeth will feel smooth and clean, and your mouth will feel fresh. You might have slight sensitivity for a day or two, especially if we removed a lot of tartar buildup. Your gums might feel a bit tender if they were inflamed before cleaning. This sensitivity is normal and should go away quickly. Many patients notice their teeth look brighter after removing stains and buildup.
How much do teeth cleanings cost?
Routine teeth cleanings typically cost $100-$200, depending on your specific needs. The cost includes the cleaning, polishing, and consultation about your oral health. If you need additional services like fluoride treatment, there might be a small additional charge. Most dental insurance plans cover routine cleanings at 100%, making them essentially free for insured patients.
Does insurance cover teeth cleanings?
Yes, dental insurance provides excellent coverage for routine teeth cleanings. Most plans cover cleanings at 100% with no deductible, typically allowing two cleanings per year. This makes preventive care very affordable and encourages regular maintenance. Some plans also cover additional cleanings for patients with gum disease who need more frequent care.