Teeth Cleaning

Brushing and flossing are essential, but they don’t reach everything. Over time, plaque and tartar accumulate in areas your toothbrush can’t access, leading to bad breath, bleeding gums, and eventually gum disease or tooth decay. Professional teeth cleaning in Portland, OR, removes this buildup before it causes lasting damage. Dr. Daniel Miller and Dr. Grant Alexander provide comprehensive dental cleaning services at Valley Dental Works.

What Is Teeth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning, also known as dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a crucial part of preventive oral healthcare. This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms in your mouth. If not removed regularly through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar (calculus), which is more difficult to remove at home.

Professional teeth cleaning services in Portland, OR, utilize specialized instruments to effectively eliminate these deposits, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Pediatric Dental Cleaning: Caring for Young Smiles

Teeth cleaning is just as crucial for children and teens as for adults. Pediatric dental cleaning includes gentle removal of plaque and tartar, cavity risk assessments, and education on proper oral hygiene habits. Regular visits help detect early signs of dental issues and foster a lifetime of good dental care habits.

Our dental team is experienced in working with younger patients and focuses on making the visit comfortable and informative for children and their parents.

Types of Teeth Cleaning Procedures

Valley Dental Works offers various teeth cleaning services to address different oral health needs:

• Prophylaxis (Routine Cleaning): This is a standard dental cleaning performed on patients with healthy gums. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar above the gum line, followed by polishing.
• Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Teeth Cleaning): This more intensive procedure is recommended for patients with gum disease. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar below the gum line, while root planing smooths the tooth roots to help prevent further bacterial buildup and promote gum healing.
• Periodontal Maintenance: Following deep teeth cleaning, regular periodontal maintenance appointments are essential to manage gum disease and prevent its progression. These cleanings focus on areas prone to tartar buildup and may be needed more frequently than routine cleanings.
• Pediatric Dental Cleaning: Tailored for the unique needs of children and teens, our pediatric dental services focus on removing plaque and tartar while educating young patients on proper oral hygiene techniques.

Why Regular Teeth Cleaning Matters

Regular teeth cleaning provides significant advantages for your oral and overall health:

• Removes Plaque and Tartar: Effectively eliminates buildup that causes gum disease.
• Lowers Cavity Risk: Reduces bacteria that lead to tooth decay.
• Freshens Breath: Removes odor-causing bacteria for improved breath.
• Brightens Smile: Erases surface stains for a more attractive appearance.
• Detects Early Issues: Allows for the timely identification and treatment of oral health problems.
• Supports Overall Health: Contributes to general well-being by reducing oral bacteria.
• Provides Hygiene Guidance: Offers personalized advice for effective at-home care.
• Maintains Restorations: Protects the health and longevity of dental work.

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What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning Appointment

During a standard cleaning, our dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums. Specialized instruments will then remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing to eliminate surface stains and smooth the enamel.

Fluoride treatment may be offered, depending on your dental needs. For patients needing deep teeth cleaning, additional steps will be taken to address buildup below the gumline. We also provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques to support better at-home dental care.

Cost of Dental Cleaning

The cost of dental cleaning varies depending on the type of procedure, the patient’s dental condition, and insurance coverage. Routine cleanings are often covered by dental insurance plans. Deep cleanings, due to their extended time and techniques, may involve additional costs.

We offer affordable dental care options to help patients access the necessary treatments. Our staff will provide a cost estimate before any procedure begins.

Why Choose Valley Dental Works?

At Valley Dental Works, your oral health is managed by a team that blends advanced training with practical, patient-centered care. Dr. Daniel Miller and Dr. Grant Alexander bring decades of combined experience in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry.

Our practice prioritizes precision and prevention. From routine cleanings to complex dental solutions, we take the time to examine your needs and explain your options clearly so you can make informed decisions about your care. Patients from Portland, Happy Valley, and surrounding areas value our consistency, modern equipment, and straightforward approach to dentistry.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I get a dental cleaning?

  Most patients benefit from a cleaning every six months. However, those with a history of gum disease or high tartar buildup may need more frequent visits.

• Is teeth cleaning painful?

  A standard cleaning is generally not painful. If you have sensitive teeth or require a deep cleaning, we use techniques to minimize discomfort.

• What’s the difference between plaque and tartar?

  Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which can only be cleaned by a dental professional.

• Can teeth cleaning whiten my teeth?

  While cleaning removes surface stains, it is not a whitening treatment. For more noticeable results, you may consider our teeth whitening services.

• What happens if I skip regular dental cleanings?

  Avoiding cleanings can lead to plaque and tartar accumulation, increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss over time.

Schedule Your Next Teeth Cleaning

Book your dental cleaning today with Dr. Miller or Dr. Alexander at Valley Dental Works. Schedule your teeth cleaning appointment today and experience comprehensive dental care in a professional and welcoming environment.