Our Dentist Near You Welcomes New Patients
Maintaining a bright, healthy smile starts with regular dental cleanings. These routine dentist appointments are more than just a quick polish—they’re a cornerstone of oral health, preventing issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Are you looking for a new general dentist in Algoma? Trust Dr. Daniel Fama to ensure you achieve and maintain excellent oral health. To schedule an appointment at Algoma Family Dentistry, contact our dentist near you at 920-487-2733.
What Are Dental Cleanings?
A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. Unlike brushing and flossing at home, teeth cleanings use specialized tools to clean areas that are hard to reach, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.
Dental cleanings are typically recommended every six months, though some patients with specific conditions may need more frequent visits. These appointments not only keep your smile sparkling but also play a critical role in preventing serious dental issues.
Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings
When patients maintain regular dental appointments, they experience the following benefits from dental cleanings:
- Prevents cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems
- Early detection of dental problems
- Helps maintain overall health
- Promotes fresher breath
Professional teeth cleanings are a necessity! Contact our Algoma dentist today by calling 920-487-2733.
Types of Dental Cleanings
Routine Teeth Cleanings
Routine teeth cleanings are the most common and are recommended for those with good oral health. During a dental cleaning procedure, our dentist or dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. The dental cleaning process is quick and shouldn’t take longer than one hour.
This type of cleaning is typically done twice a year, along with a dental exam as part of routine dental health care.
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep dental cleanings, is recommended for those with moderate to severe gum disease. During a scaling and root planing treatment, our dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from below the gum line. They’ll also smooth out the roots of your teeth to prevent future buildup.
In many cases, one or two sessions of scaling and root planing can reverse the effects of gum disease and prevent it from progressing into further stages.
Periodontal Maintenance
A periodontal maintenance cleaning is done after scaling and root planing to maintain the health of the gums. During periodontal maintenance, our dentist will remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated since your last deep cleaning. This type of cleaning is typically done every three to four months for patients with gum disease.
Gross Debridement
Gross debridement cleaning isn’t your typical dental cleaning. It’s done to remove plaque and tartar that’s built up excessively for routine teeth cleaning. This type of dental cleaning is necessary when there’s so much buildup, making it difficult for the dentist to perform a thorough oral examination. The gums may be swollen, and the buildup must be removed before a prophylaxis or dental exam can be completed.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends dental cleanings every six months for most people. However, our dentist may adjust this schedule based on factors like:
- Oral Health Status: Patients with gum disease or a history of cavities may need cleanings every 3–4 months.
- Lifestyle Habits: Smoking, heavy coffee consumption, or poor oral hygiene may necessitate more frequent visits.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes or pregnancy can increase the risk of dental issues, requiring closer monitoring.
To schedule your appointment at our dental office in Algoma, call 920-487-2733.
Aftercare Tips for Dental Cleanings
Post-cleaning care helps maintain the results and keeps your mouth and teeth healthy until your next visit. Follow these tips:
- Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks: For 24 to 48 hours after a teeth cleaning, steer clear of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored foods to prevent staining.
- Stick to Soft Foods: If your gums are sensitive, opt for soft foods like yogurt or soup for a day or two.
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine to prevent plaque buildup.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps rinse away bacteria and keeps your mouth fresh.
- Follow Dentist Recommendations: If our dentist suggests a specific mouthwash or toothpaste, incorporate it into your routine.
Dental Cleaning Costs
On average, dental cleaning costs between $75 to $200 without dental insurance. The price varies based on several factors, including the type of cleaning, your location, and whether you have dental insurance. If you have any questions, contact our dental office near you today at 920-487-2733.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are teeth cleanings painful?
No, teeth cleanings are typically painless. You may experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums, but it shouldn’t be painful. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative instructions after the cleaning.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
A professional dental cleaning typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, the length of your procedure depends on the type of cleaning and the extent of buildup on your teeth.
Healthy Teeth at Algoma Family Dentistry
Professional cleanings can keep your smile beautiful and bright. If you’re looking for a general dentist near you offering teeth cleanings, look no further than Dr. Daniel Fama. Schedule your appointment today by contacting our dentist in Algoma by calling 920-487-2733.