A professional cleaning removes the hardened plaque, called tartar, that brushing and flossing can’t reach. It’s the simplest way to prevent cavities, gum disease and bad breath, and it leaves your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.
Our hygienists are known for being gentle and thorough, and patients often mention them by name in reviews. If you’re nervous or have sensitive teeth, tell us. We’ll adjust.
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Even with great brushing and flossing, plaque builds up in places that are hard to reach. Over time, it hardens into tartar, which only a dental professional can remove. Left alone, tartar irritates your gums and leads to gum disease, one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.
A routine cleaning usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, often at the same visit as your exam.
Your hygienist looks at your teeth and gums and asks about any sensitivity or concerns.
Using gentle instruments, they clear tartar from above and just below the gumline.
A gritty paste removes surface stains and leaves your teeth smooth.
Your hygienist flosses between every tooth to clear anything left behind.
You’ll get simple, personal advice on any areas that need a little more attention.
Bleeding gums, puffy or tender gums, or gums that have pulled away from your teeth can be signs of gum disease. When bacteria and tartar collect deep below the gumline, a regular cleaning isn’t enough.
In that case, we may recommend a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing. We numb the area, clean deep below the gumline, and smooth the tooth roots so your gums can heal and reattach. It treats the problem early, before it affects the bone that holds your teeth in place.
If you notice any of these, don’t wait for your next checkup. Call us and we’ll take a look.
With most dental insurance plans, two routine cleanings a year are covered at little or no cost. Deep cleanings for gum disease are usually partly covered. If you don’t have insurance, we’ll give you a clear price before your visit.
Gum disease affects a large share of adults, and many don’t know they have it because it’s often painless in the early stages. The good news is that early gum disease, called gingivitis, can usually be reversed with professional cleanings and better daily cleaning at home. The sooner we catch it, the easier it is to treat.
Our hygienists take their time. They’ll check in with you, go gently around sensitive areas, and never make you feel bad about how long it’s been. Patients regularly mention our hygienists by name in reviews, and we’re proud of that.
Bad breath that won’t go away is often caused by bacteria trapped below the gumline or on the tongue. A professional cleaning removes much of that buildup, and your hygienist can show you how to clean the areas you might be missing. If bad breath continues, it can be a sign of gum disease or another issue worth checking.
Cleanings are usually paired with a dental exam. For tips between visits, see our oral health guide.
For most people, no. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, tell us and we’ll go gently.
Every six months for most people. If you’ve had gum disease, every three or four months is often better.
Not with us. No lectures. We’ll get you back on track and keep it comfortable. You may need a deeper cleaning first.
No. A deep cleaning treats gum disease by cleaning below the gumline and usually takes one or two visits with numbing.
With most insurance plans, routine cleanings are covered at little or no cost. We’ll check your benefits before you come in.
Book online in about a minute, or call us at (703) 420-5250. New patients are always welcome.
