A dental cleaning is an essential preventive dental care procedure. At California Center for Laser Dentistry, a dental cleaning process involves the removal of hardened plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can help prevent cavities and gum disease. 

Cleanings are recommended at least once every six months or more often if you have gum disease. If you have concerns about your dental health, such as bad breath, bleeding gums, visible cavities, or loose teeth, you may need more than just a dental cleaning. Our dentist might recommend other treatments, including sealants, fluoride applications, or periodontal therapy.

What Are Plaque and Tartar?

Plaque is a sticky substance that builds on the teeth, often leading to gum disease. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth daily, plaque will harden into tartar. Both can lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems. 

You can prevent these problems by getting routine dental cleanings every six months. Our dentist or dental hygienist gently removes plaque buildup from your teeth to prevent cavities or other issues.

The Dental Cleaning Procedure

During a cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will first remove plaque and debris from the surface of the teeth using a tool such as a scaler. Then, they will polish the teeth with a paste and rotating brush to remove stains and smooth the tooth surface. If necessary, they may also apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth further. 

On top of cleanings, our dental office provides other preventive services, such as oral cancer screenings, X-rays, and fluoride treatments. This allows patients to stay on top of their dental health and catch any problems early to address them before they become more severe.

The Benefits of Professional Dental Cleanings

Having your teeth professionally cleaned regularly can vastly improve your oral health and quality of life. First, it helps to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which are the leading causes of tooth loss. A professional cleaning will also give your smile an extra sparkle by removing surface stains caused by dark-colored food and beverages, tobacco use, and other lifestyle habits. 

A thorough cleaning removes plaque buildup between each tooth and smooths the surface of the teeth so that bacteria are less likely to cling on and start causing problems. Finally, a professional dental cleaning ensures that your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible so you can immediately begin any needed dental treatments.

Regular appointments help our dentist detect and treat any issues before they worsen and require more extensive treatment, like root canals or extractions. If you’re overdue for your next cleaning or want to learn more about the process, contact California Center for Laser Dentistry at (925) 939-3997 or visit us at 1844 San Miguel Dr #106, Walnut Creek, CA 94596, and schedule your next appointment.