A general cleaning involves removing plaque, tartar and stains from the teeth and checking the health of your gums. A general cleaning is recommended every six months as part of your preventative care regimen. Cleanings are done by licensed registered dental hygienists and take about an hour in our office. After the cleaning is done, an exam is often performed to check for other intraoral-related problems.
Why is a General Cleaning needed?
A general cleaning is needed as part of your preventative care routine. The cleaning works to remove hardened plaque and tartar that is impossible to remove on your own. Even with the best at-home brushing and flossing techniques, it is still important to come in every six months for a cleaning. We recommend a cleaning for patients of all ages and it’s important for children to come in for their first appointment by the time they’re two years old.
What makes you a good candidate for a General Cleaning?
General cleanings are essential for all types of patients. One exception would be a patient who wears a full set of dentures, but it is still crucial to come in for an exam and to check the health of your gums. Children as young as six months old are eligible for cleanings and it’s important to come in twice a year to keep up with your cleanings. Cleanings are crucial in removing hardened plaque and tartar as well as checking the overall health of your gums.
What can be expected during a General Cleaning?
You will first have dental x-rays taken of your teeth that will help us identify different intraoral-related conditions. Next, the hygienist works to remove plaque and tartar by scraping them off using a series of tools. Once the teeth are cleaned, they will be polished and flossed for a fresh, clean finish. The hygienist then checks the health of your gums by measuring the tissue around each tooth. Larger pockets that have formed around the teeth could be a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. We can pre-schedule your cleaning appointments so that you never miss vital routine care. If you are in need of a general cleaning or would like to know more about this procedure, call our office and one of our helpful staff members can further assist you.