Regular teeth cleanings are essential for a healthy smile. Our gentle, thorough cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. Using advanced technology like the Cavitron® ultrasonic scaler, we provide a comfortable and effective cleaning experience. Whether it’s your first visit or a routine checkup, our hygienists and Grand Rapids dentist will work to ensure your smile stays fresh, bright, and healthy.
Learn more about professional teeth cleanings and what’s involved below.
How a Teeth Cleaning Complements At-Home Care
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once daily are essential habits for maintaining good oral health. However, even with diligent at-home care, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas. That’s where a inside our Grand Rapids, MI, dental office plays a vital role.
A professional dental cleaning every six months helps remove stubborn plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing may miss. Plaque that hardens into tartar cannot be removed with a toothbrush alone and requires specialized tools used by our hygienists. Removing this buildup can help keep cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues at bay.
These routine visits also allow our team to monitor your oral health closely. While you’re in the dental chair, our dentist and staff can identify early signs of potential problems, such as small cavities or gum inflammation, before they become more serious. This proactive approach ensures that minor issues are addressed early, helping you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
What You Can Expect
A teeth cleaning is a straightforward yet thorough process designed to leave your smile fresh and plaque-free. When you come in for your visit, you can expect to move through the following stages:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal – Our hygienist will use tools, like a scaler, to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, particularly in tighter areas that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush or floss.
- Deep Cleaning and Polishing – After removing buildup, your teeth will be polished with a high-powered toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste that helps remove surface stains and leaves your enamel feeling smooth and refreshed.
- Expert Flossing – Even if you floss daily, a professional flossing will reach any remaining debris between your teeth, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Rinse and Exam – You’ll rinse to clear away any loose particles, and our dentist may conduct a quick exam to double check for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns.
- Optional Fluoride Treatment – For added protection, you can opt for a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and help prevent cavity development.
If you are interested in the application of dental sealants to provide additional protection against decay, be sure to let us know prior to the cleaning so our team can prepare accordingly.
