What Can I Expect During My Professional Dental Cleaning?

At Bridget Singh, DDS, we are proponents of prevention to lower the risk of dental disease. We are pleased to offer a range of preventive dentistry options, including dental cleanings, to maintain long-term healthy and beautiful smiles. Here’s what you can expect during a routine dental cleaning appointment. 

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?

At Bridget Singh, DDS, we recommend scheduling your dental cleaning appointments twice a year to keep your smile healthy and sound. If, however, you have periodontal disease or other oral health problems, you may require more frequent dental visits to maintain your oral health. 

What Can You Expect During Your Routine Dental Cleaning? 

Here’s a look at what you can expect during your dental cleaning:

• Examination: We will start your appointment with a thorough exam to check for early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health problems. We will also evaluate any restorations to make sure they are free from damage. 
• Removing Plaque and Tartar: If not removed by daily brushing, plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, can harden to tartar, which only a dental professional can remove. During your dental cleaning, we will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along your gum line using a dental instrument called a scaler. 
• Professional Flossing: We will conduct professional flossing to remove plaque and any debris from those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth. Our hygienist will look out for any tender, sore, or bleeding areas in your gums, which may indicate early signs of gum disease. 
• Power Brushing: We will polish your teeth using gritty toothpaste and a high-powered toothbrush. This step removes any remaining plaque and surface tooth stains, leaving your teeth clean and bright.
• Fluoride Treatment: We may recommend a topical fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce your risk of cavities. The quick and simple treatment involves the application of a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish for extra protection for your smile.  
• Patient Education: After your dental cleaning, we may provide personalized recommendations for at-home oral care, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques. Our goal is to help you keep your smile clean and bright between dental visits. 

What Are the Benefits of Dental Cleaning?

Maintaining regular dental cleanings is one of the most effective ways to lower your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. During your visit, we will evaluate your oral health to identify any concerns in their earliest stages, preventing them from progressing and requiring costly and extensive treatments in the future. Dental cleanings also help remove surface tooth stains, leaving you with a brighter, whiter smile. 

Aside from promoting a healthier smile, dental cleanings can enhance your overall health. Removing plaque and tartar buildup can help lower the risk of gum disease, which has been linked to a range of health concerns, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more. Your twice-yearly visits to the dentist will boost your health and enhance your quality of life.  

Dental Cleaning Near Me in Seattle, WA

Are you ready to take charge of your oral health? Visit Bridget Singh, DDS, to learn more about our preventive services, including dental cleanings. Dr. Singh and her patient-centered team look forward to helping you maintain a healthy smile for a lifetime. We invite you to schedule a consultation by using this link or by calling our office at 206-399-3775.