Even the most careful brushers miss spots. A professional teeth cleaning removes the buildup that home care cannot, and it gives your dental team a chance to spot small problems before they become big ones. Here is what happens during a cleaning and why it is worth keeping on your calendar.
Step by step: what happens during a teeth cleaning
- Review and exam: We check your gums, teeth, and any changes since your last visit.
- Scaling: Plaque and hardened tartar are removed from above and just below the gumline using hand instruments or an ultrasonic scaler.
- Polishing: A gritty paste smooths the tooth surface and removes surface stains.
- Flossing: We floss between every tooth to clear remaining debris.
- Fluoride: An optional fluoride treatment helps strengthen enamel.
- Dentist exam: The dentist checks for cavities, gum disease, and signs of oral cancer, often with X-rays.
Why tartar matters
Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar within a day or two. Tartar cannot be brushed away, and it irritates the gums, leading to gingivitis. Left alone, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds your teeth in place.
How often do you need a cleaning?
Most people do well with a cleaning every six months. If you have a history of gum disease, diabetes, a tendency to build tartar quickly, or you smoke, we may recommend visits every three or four months. Your schedule should be based on your mouth, not a one-size-fits-all rule.
Regular cleaning vs. deep cleaning
A regular cleaning focuses on healthy gums. If there are deeper pockets between the gums and teeth, a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, may be needed to remove bacteria below the gumline and help the gums reattach.
Making the most of your visit
Tell us about any sensitivity, bleeding, or changes in your health or medications. Ask about techniques or tools that could make your home care easier. The American Dental Association offers more tips at MouthHealthy.org.
Teeth cleaning FAQs
Does a teeth cleaning hurt?
A routine teeth cleaning should not be painful. If your gums are sensitive, let your hygienist know so they can adjust their technique or use a numbing gel.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
Most teeth cleaning appointments with an exam take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how much buildup needs to be removed.
Book a teeth cleaning in South Bend
Spring is a great time to get back on track. Schedule your teeth cleaning at Michiana Family Dental, 3575 Portage Ave, Suite A, South Bend, IN. We serve patients across St. Joseph County, from Mishawaka and Granger to New Carlisle. Request an appointment today.