What Is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning (oral prophylaxis) is a thorough removal of plaque and tartar (calculus) buildup that cannot be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone. This process helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues, ensuring long-term dental wellness.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?
Our expert hygienists use specialized instruments to gently and effectively remove deposits from your teeth without causing damage to the enamel. The process includes:
1. Tartar & Plaque Removal
- Ultrasonic Scaling: A vibrating ultrasonic device, cooled by water, is used to loosen and break apart larger tartar deposits.
- Hand Scaling: Fine dental instruments manually remove smaller deposits from hard-to-reach areas and along the gumline.
2. Teeth Polishing
- After plaque and tartar are removed, teeth are polished with a special paste to smooth the surfaces, helping to prevent future buildup.
- Polishing also removes minor stains, enhancing the brightness of your smile.
3. Flossing & Final Assessment
- Your hygienist will floss between teeth to ensure all plaque is removed.
- A final assessment may be performed to check gum health and identify any areas that need extra attention.
💡 For patients with signs of gum disease, a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) may be recommended to remove bacteria from below the gumline.
Why Are Regular Cleanings Important?
Regular professional cleanings help:
✅ Prevent cavities & decay by removing harmful plaque buildup.
✅ Protect against gum disease by eliminating bacteria and inflammation.
✅ Keep your breath fresh by reducing odor-causing plaque and bacteria.
✅ Enhance your smile’s brightness by removing surface stains.
✅ Support overall health, as oral bacteria have been linked to heart disease and other conditions.
💡 How often should you get a cleaning?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends a cleaning every six months for optimal oral health. Patients with gum disease may need more frequent cleanings to maintain gum health.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning Today!
Keep your teeth and gums healthy, clean, and bright with professional cleanings at Manhattan Dental Spa. Our gentle and skilled hygienists ensure a comfortable and effective experience for every patient.
📞 Call 212-683-2530 or book an appointment online to schedule your dental cleaning today!