What to Expect During Your Professional Dental Cleaning

What to Expect During a Professional Dental Cleaning

Whether it’s your first dental cleaning or your first one in a while, knowing what to expect can help ease any nervousness and make your visit more comfortable. At Prime Dental Care, we aim to make every cleaning thorough, gentle, and educational.

Step 1: A Brief Examination

Before the cleaning starts, your dental hygienist will do a quick exam of your mouth using a small mirror. They’re looking for signs of inflammation, plaque, tartar, or other issues that might need a closer look by the dentist.

Step 2: Removing Plaque and Tartar

Using a Ultrasonic scaler, your hygienist will gently remove plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) around your gumline and between your teeth. This is the most important step for preventing gum disease and decay. You may hear scraping sounds—this is normal!

Step 3: Deep Cleaning and Polishing

Once your teeth are free of tartar, your hygienist will use a high-powered electric device and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This removes surface stains and leaves your teeth smooth and shiny.

Step 4: Professional Flossing

Even if you floss regularly at home, professional flossing gets deep between teeth and helps remove any leftover plaque or toothpaste from the cleaning.

Step 5: Rinse and Fluoride Treatment (If Needed)

You’ll rinse your mouth to remove any debris, and in some cases, your hygienist may recommend a fluoride treatment to help strengthen enamel and protect your teeth between visits.

Step 6: Dentist’s Exam

Your dentist will perform a final exam to check your teeth, gums, and overall oral health. If there are any concerns—like cavities or early signs of gum disease—they’ll walk you through next steps.

How Often Should I Get a Dental Cleaning?

Most patients should get a cleaning every 6 months. If you have gum disease or are at higher risk of dental issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Why Cleanings Matter

Regular dental cleanings do more than just keep your smile bright—they help:

• Prevent cavities and gum disease

• Detect oral issues early

• Remove stains and buildup that brushing can’t

• Keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy

Schedule Your Cleaning at Prime Dental Care

At Prime Dental Care in Woodbridge, we make your comfort and care a priority. Whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or it’s been a while, our friendly team is here to help you feel confident about your oral health.

📞 Call (571) 513-7117 or book online to schedule your next cleaning today!