Professional Cleanings for a Healthy, Beautiful Smile!
Professional teeth cleaning is fundamental to our patient’s oral health and to the office of Summit Dental Group in Boise, Idaho. Even those patients who never fail to floss and who always brush their teeth thoroughly must visit us for cleanings regularly.
“Standard” toothbrushes, floss, and other “OTC” techniques are limited in their ability to remove nasties. No one can possibly keep up with all of that plaque, no matter how well and how often we brush. And, once that plaque has built up, it hardens into a stubborn substance called “tartar” (or “calculus”). When we say “stubborn,” we mean that only dental professionals like our hygienists can remove tartar.
Our dental hygienists are trained and experienced in using special instruments and processes to gently and thoroughly remove plaque build-up. Along the way, they are also removing surface stains. So, professional cleanings are imperative for both the health and the attractive appearance of your smile. Once bacteria, plaque, tartar, and surface stains have been removed from the teeth and at the gum line, the finishing touch is nice polishing. Our patients love how minty-fresh their mouths feel after a good cleaning and polishing. This service also helps to keep halitosis (bad breath) in check.
A healthy habit
Generally, our dentists, Drs. Mooney, Studebaker, Ritchie and Richardson, recommend professional cleanings on a bi-annual basis. Your Boise dentist will check for any problems that our hygienist may have noted while cleaning your teeth or that you may have discussed with one of our hygiene team members. They can confirm or rule out problems such as enamel erosion, cavities, early-stage gingival inflammation, or later-stage gum infections. They will also check for potential anomalies that could indicate pre-cancer presence or cancerous lesions of the oral cavity and throat. Depending on your needs, further imaging and testing may be in order.
If you are at risk of any of the conditions listed here, we may recommend more frequent visits than the standard 6-month “check-up.” Additionally, the “standard” cleaning may be insufficient for patients with active disease. A “deep cleaning” procedure can be performed to get your gums back to great health.
Call 208-345-8962 without delay to schedule your appointment at Summit Dental Group in Boise, ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why are professional teeth cleanings necessary if I brush daily?
Even with good brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas. A professional cleaning removes these deposits, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Q. What happens during a dental cleaning appointment?
Your hygienist will remove plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and floss thoroughly. The process also includes a dental exam to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy.
Q. How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?
Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months, though your dentist may recommend more frequent visits based on your gum health and plaque buildup.
Q. Can teeth cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes. Professional cleanings remove bacteria and food particles that contribute to bad breath, leaving your mouth fresher and healthier.
Q. Are dental cleanings uncomfortable?
Teeth cleanings are typically painless, though you may feel mild sensitivity if you have inflammation or buildup. Regular visits make cleanings easier and more comfortable over time.
