Dental Cleanings

What are dental cleanings?

Dental cleanings are professional oral hygiene treatments your dental team performs to remove dental plaque and tartar (calculus) from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if it’s not removed.

With a focus on holistic preventive care, Burbank Dental Studio integrates dental cleanings as a cornerstone of maintaining your oral health.

Why are dental cleanings important?

Dental cleanings are essential to your oral health and wellness for several reasons, including:

Plaque and tartar removal

Dental cleanings effectively remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, preventing harmful bacteria from building up and causing cavities or gum disease.

Tooth decay prevention 

By eliminating plaque, dental cleanings help prevent tooth decay, ensuring your teeth remain healthy and strong.

Gum disease protection

Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease by addressing early signs of inflammation and infection.

Early issue detection

Your dental team can identify and address potential dental issues early during cleanings, preventing them from becoming more serious problems.

Fresh breath

Removing plaque and tartar reduces bacteria’s presence, giving you fresher breath. 

What happens during dental cleanings?

Dental cleanings typically take between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on your oral health, and typically include:

X-rays 

Depending on your oral health history, your dental team may take X-rays to assess areas not visible during the cleaning. This step helps identify potential problems between teeth or beneath the gumline.

Gum exam

Your dental team starts by examining your gums for signs of inflammation, bleeding, or other indications of gum disease. 

Cavity check

During cleanings, your dental hygienist inspects your teeth for signs of cavities or other dental issues, allowing for prompt intervention and preventive measures.

Cleaning

Next, your hygienist uses special tools to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gumline.

Teeth polishing

After plaque and tartar removal, your hygienist polishes your teeth to eliminate surface stains and create a smoother tooth surface. 

Fluoride treatment

In some cases, your hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. 

Education and advice

Finally, the team provides guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing techniques. They may also offer advice on lifestyle factors that impact oral health.

Call Burbank Dental Studio today or use the online booking tool to schedule a dental cleaning.