Cleanings and prevention
What a professional cleaning does
Plaque that is not removed by brushing and cleaning between your teeth can harden into tartar, and once tartar forms, only a dental professional can remove it. A professional cleaning takes it off.
What Happens at a Teeth Cleaning
At a teeth cleaning, a dentist or dental hygienist removes bacteria, plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, and Cleveland Clinic says every cleaning includes two main steps: scaling and polishing. Scaling removes plaque and tartar with special tools, sometimes a vibrating tool called an ultrasonic scaler. Polishing uses a soft rubber cup and special toothpaste to remove leftover germs. Most cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes.
If you need X-rays, we use digital X-rays, which typically use less radiation than traditional film.
At a checkup the dentist also evaluates your overall dental health, which is the dental exam part of the visit.
Routine Cleaning or Deep Cleaning?
Whether you need a routine cleaning or a deep cleaning depends on your gums. Cleveland Clinic describes a routine cleaning, or prophylaxis, as the most common type, meant for people with healthy teeth and gums, and a deep cleaning as a special cleaning for people with gum disease.
A deep cleaning, called scaling and root planing, reaches under the gums and around the tooth roots. Scaling removes plaque and tartar above and below the gums, and root planing smooths the tooth roots. The gums are numbed first. A deep cleaning takes one to two hours, and the dentist might do everything in one visit or clean half the teeth at one appointment and the other half at a second.
Many patients do not require additional treatment after scaling and root planing, but the majority will require ongoing maintenance therapy to keep their gums healthy.
Bleeding Gums and Dental Anxiety
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease: the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research lists gums that bleed easily, and gums that are red, swollen or tender, among its symptoms. The mildest form, gingivitis, is reversible, but if left untreated it can lead to periodontitis. Gum disease can often become serious before a person notices symptoms, which is one reason regular checkups matter.
If dental visits make you anxious, let us know, and you can ask about sedation options.
Who Takes Care of You
Our team includes Dolores, a registered dental hygienist, Dr. Robert P. Hedvat, a general dentist, and Dr. Raffie Garabedian, a periodontist. The practice combines general and periodontal care with a coordinated team.
Insurance and Payment
We accept most PPO dental plans. Benefits and network participation vary by plan, so our team will gladly verify your coverage before treatment. We also accept CareCredit and offer financial arrangements.
Common questions
Teeth Cleaning Questions
Does a teeth cleaning hurt?
During a teeth cleaning, scaling shouldn't hurt, according to Cleveland Clinic, though you might hear scraping sounds. You might have sensitive teeth or sore gums afterward, and this usually goes away in a few days. Gums affected by gum disease may be tender, so tell us about any sore spots before your cleaning starts.
What does it mean if my gums bleed?
If your gums bleed easily, it can be a symptom of gum disease, so mention it at your visit. The CDC describes gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, as gums that become red, swollen and may easily bleed, and says it is reversible but can lead to periodontitis if left untreated.
How often should I get a teeth cleaning?
How often you should get a teeth cleaning depends on your mouth: the CDC advises regular professional cleanings and a dental checkup at least once a year, or more often if recommended by your health care provider. Cleveland Clinic says most dentists recommend a cleaning every six months. Ask your dentist how often is right for you.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
A teeth cleaning takes 30 to 60 minutes in most cases, according to Cleveland Clinic, and special cleanings might take longer. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) takes one to two hours to complete.