Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Diligent brushing and flossing are the foundation of excellent oral health, but they are only part of the equation. Even the most thorough at-home routine cannot remove tartar, the hardened plaque deposit that leads to gum disease.
A professional dental cleaning is the only way to remove tartar, which makes it a vital step in protecting your oral health and avoiding future dental problems.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Regular dental cleanings are the cornerstone of preventive dentistry, helping you avoid gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. Prioritizing cleanings makes it more likely you will keep your natural teeth healthy for life.
What Is Preventive Dentistry?
Preventive dentistry is the branch of dental care that keeps small issues from becoming major problems. It includes everything from fluoride treatments and sealants to routine cleanings and checkups.
The goal is simple: strengthen teeth, protect gums, and catch concerns early so treatment stays easier, less invasive, and less expensive.
The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings
Professional cleanings support both oral health and overall confidence. Key benefits include:
- Lower risk of gum disease: Tartar is removed before it can cause inflammation or progress into periodontal disease.
- Protection against cavities: Plaque buildup is cleared away, helping to preserve tooth enamel.
- Early detection of problems: Small cavities, damaged fillings, or signs of oral cancer can be identified sooner, when treatment is simpler.
- A brighter smile: Surface stains from coffee, tea, or tobacco are gently polished away.
- Fresher breath: Bacteria linked to persistent bad breath are reduced.
| What Happens If You Skip Professional Cleanings? Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which cannot be brushed away. Over time, tartar irritates the gums, leading to gingivitis and eventually periodontal disease. Without treatment, this can cause tooth loss, bone loss, and costly procedures that could have been avoided with routine cleanings. |
What to Expect at a Dental Cleaning
A dental cleaning is performed by a licensed dental hygienist or a dentist.
- Exam: Your dental hygienist checks your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues.
- Plaque and tartar removal: Special instruments are used to safely remove plaque buildup from above and below the gum line.
- Polishing: A mild gritty paste smooths your tooth enamel and removes surface stains.
- Fluoride treatment: Professional fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and protect against future decay.
For patients with periodontal disease (also known as bone loss, a weak foundation around the teeth), a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing may be needed to control infection and restore gum and oral bone health.
Preventive Dentistry at Every Stage of Life
Oral health needs change with age, but preventive care remains the constant. From protecting baby teeth in childhood to maintaining strong gums and teeth in adulthood, regular cleanings and checkups provide lasting benefits. Even in later years, a consistent routine makes it far more likely you will keep your natural teeth—proving that tooth loss is not an unavoidable part of aging. Prioritizing preventive dentistry is the surest way to protect your smile for life.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning in Mesa, AZ
Healthy smiles last longer when preventive care is part of your routine. A professional cleaning is a simple step that protects against gum disease, cavities, and future dental complications.
We are always accepting new patients! If you are in the Phoenix East Valley, book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ. Call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.
FAQs
How often should I schedule dental cleanings?
For most people who maintain a healthy mouth, twice a year is enough to keep teeth and gums healthy. These regular visits control plaque and tartar while giving your dentist the chance to catch small problems early. Some patients with gum disease or higher risk factors (i.e. diabetes) may benefit from more frequent cleanings, such as every three to four months.
Does teeth cleaning hurt?
A routine dental cleaning should not be painful. You may feel some pressure or mild sensitivity while tartar is removed, especially if it has been a long time since your last visit. Most patients find the procedure comfortable (however, any exposed roots may be sensitive during a cleaning), and your hygienist or dentist can adjust techniques to ease any sensitivity you may experience.
Where can I get a teeth cleaning near me?
If you live in Mesa or the East Valley, you can schedule a professional cleaning at Power Road Dental Care. Our team provides thorough cleanings and checkups in a comfortable setting, helping you maintain healthy teeth and gums at every stage of life.