Dental Cleaning Process in Alexandria

Professional Teeth Cleanings Near You

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing at home. Professional dental cleanings are pivotal in oral health, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. If you’re wondering what happens during a dental cleaning, our dental team is here to guide you through the process.

Schedule your next dental cleaning today to keep your smile bright and healthy! Contact our dentist in Alexandria at (703) 672-0664. We welcome new patients.

Why Dental Cleanings Are Essential for Oral Health

Dental cleanings are professional treatments performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. Unlike at-home oral hygiene, professional cleanings target hard-to-reach areas and address buildup that regular brushing can’t eliminate.

Teeth cleanings will help:

Prevent Cavities: Cleanings remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay.
Reduce Gum Disease Risk: Tartar buildup can irritate gums, leading to gingivitis or periodontitis. Cleanings help keep gums healthy.
Brighten Your Smile: Polishing during cleanings removes surface stains for a whiter, more confident smile.
Detect Issues Early On: Dentists can spot signs of cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer during cleanings.
Save You Money Long-Term: Preventive care like cleanings reduces the need for costly treatments like fillings or root canals.

What to Expect During the Dental Cleaning Process

If you’re undergoing a deep dental cleaning (scaling and root planing) or a gross debridement cleaning, the process will look different.

Initial Dental Examination

Our dental hygienist or dentist begins by examining your mouth using a small mirror and other tools. They check for:

Signs of tooth decay or cavities.
Gum health, including redness, swelling, or bleeding.
Any abnormalities, such as sores or signs of oral cancer.

This examination helps identify areas that need special attention during the cleaning and ensures any underlying issues are addressed.

Scaling to Remove Plaque and Tartar

Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your teeth and along the gumline. The hygienist uses specialized tools, such as:

Manual Scalers: Hand-held instruments to scrape away buildup.
Ultrasonic Scalers: Devices that use vibrations and water to break up tartar.

Scaling is thorough yet gentle, focusing on areas like between teeth and below the gumline where plaque tends to accumulate.

Polishing for a Smooth, Clean Finish

After scaling, the hygienist polishes your teeth using a rotating brush or cup with gritty toothpaste-like material. Polishing:

Smooths tooth surfaces to prevent future plaque buildup.
Removes surface stains from coffee, tea, or smoking.
Leaves your teeth feeling clean and shiny.

Flossing and Rinse

The hygienist flosses between your teeth to remove any remaining debris or polishing paste. A rinse with water or a fluoride mouthwash follows to clear out loose particles and freshen your breath.

Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

Many dental offices offer a fluoride treatment to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. This may involve the following:

A gel or foam is applied to your teeth via a tray.
A fluoride varnish is painted directly onto the teeth.

Final Review and Recommendations

Our Alexandria dentist or hygienist reviews your oral health and provides personalized advice, such as:

Brushing and flossing techniques.
Dietary tips to reduce sugar intake.
Recommendations for additional treatments, if needed.

Maintaining optimal oral health is essential. Contact our dental office near you today by calling (703) 672-0664 to schedule your teeth cleaning.

Immediate Teeth Cleaning Aftercare

Avoid Staining Foods/Drinks: For 24 to 48 hours, steer clear of coffee, tea, red wine, or dark-colored foods to prevent staining, especially if you had a fluoride treatment.
Rinse Gently: Use water or a mild mouthwash to keep your mouth clean without irritating gums.
Watch for Sensitivity: Some people experience temporary tooth or gum sensitivity after scaling. Use a desensitizing toothpaste if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat or drink before a dental cleaning?

It’s best to avoid eating or drinking anything before a dental cleaning, especially if you’re getting a fluoride treatment. Food and drink can interfere with the effectiveness of the fluoride treatment.

Are dental cleanings safe for pregnant women?

Yes, cleanings are safe and recommended during pregnancy to prevent gum disease, which can affect maternal and fetal health. Inform your dentist about your pregnancy.

Achieve Healthy Teeth by Visiting Our Dentist Twice a Year

Don’t wait to prioritize your oral health. Whether it’s your first cleaning or you’re due for a checkup, take the first step toward a healthier smile today. Get started on improving your dental health by calling our Alexandria dentist near you at (703) 672-0664.