— THE MOST IMPORTANT VISIT
Prevention Beats Treatment
Regular cleanings and exams give us an opportunity to identify small problems earlier, monitor the health of your gums, and remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone cannot reach.
Our hygienists are gentle, thorough, and unhurried. We use modern ultrasonic tools that are far more comfortable than the traditional scrape-and-poke routine.
And when one of our doctors performs your exam, they take time to explain what they see and answer your questions.
COST ESTIMATE
Varies by plan
Preventive cleanings may be covered in full or in part depending on your insurance plan's out-of-network benefits. We'll check your coverage before your visit and let you know what to expect. No surprises.
— WHY IT MATTERS
What Cleaning Actually Does
Removes Tartar
Hardened plaque (tartar) cannot be brushed away — only professional tools can clear it.
Early Detection
We catch cavities, gum disease, and even early oral cancer signs before they become serious.
Healthier Gums
Cleanings prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease — the leading cause of tooth loss.
Fresh Breath
Removes the bacteria responsible for persistent bad breath.
Whiter Smile
Polishing removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and wine — instant brightening.
Prevention Focused
Regular preventive care can help identify concerns before they become more complex to treat.
— THE PROCESS
Your Cleaning Visit,
Step by Step
1
Quick Catch-Up
A short conversation about anything new — sensitivity, concerns, changes in your routine.
2
Gentle Cleaning
Ultrasonic and hand tools remove plaque and tartar. Modern tools mean less scraping, less discomfort.
3
Polish & Floss
Surface stains are polished away and we floss every tooth thoroughly.
4
Exam & Plan
One of our doctors reviews everything, recommends X-rays when appropriate, and walks you through what they see.
— FREQUENCY
How Often Should You Come?
For most adults and children, every 6 months is the right cadence. But some patients benefit from more frequent visits.
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Every 6 months — standard for healthy adults and kids
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Every 3–4 months — patients with gum disease or higher risk
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Every 6 months during pregnancy — hormonal changes affect gums
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Every 6 months for diabetics — closer link to gum health
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Annual deep cleanings — if you have tartar buildup below the gumline
— Common Questions
Cleaning FAQ
Usually 45–60 minutes for a routine cleaning, including exam. Deep cleanings (for gum disease) take 60–90 minutes per visit.
For most patients, no — just some pressure. If you have sensitive gums or buildup, we offer numbing gel to keep you comfortable.
A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is recommended if you have tartar buildup below the gumline or early periodontal disease. It is more thorough than a regular cleaning.
No — there is plaque and tartar that even perfect home care cannot remove. Brushing helps a lot, but only professional tools can clear hardened buildup.
