Cleaning Appointments Available NOW!
What is Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is the process of deep cleaning your teeth and mouth to remove plaque, tartar, and stains above, around, and below the gumline. This deep clean helps to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other serious health issues.
These bi-annual visits give your dental hygienist and dentist the opportunity to identify potential problems with your teeth early so you can address them before they have a major impact on your health.
What is typically included in a dental cleaning:
- Examination of your mouth by the dentist or hygienist.
- Removal of plaque and tartar using a scaler or ultrasonic tool.
- Polishing of teeth with an electric brush and gritty toothpaste
- Flossing to remove debris between teeth.
- Optional fluoride treatment.
- If necessary, recommendations for further treatments such as fillings or deep cleanings.
Why are Teeth Cleanings So Important?
Regular teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing various dental problems. Here’s why they’re important:
Removes plaque, tartar, and stains
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth after eating or drinking. If not removed regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. Both plaque and tartar contribute to the development of cavities.
Freshens breath
Cleanings help eliminate odor-causing bacteria from plaque and tarter, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and your breath smelling good.
Prevents cavities and gum disease
Regular cleanings prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup, which harbor harmful bacteria. Without cleanings, plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum inflammation, progressing from gingivitis to more severe conditions like periodontitis.
Monitors tooth health
Regular cleanings help monitor your tooth health, allowing for the early detection of cavities or other dental issues. This proactive approach helps form a plan of action before problems become more serious and require extensive treatment.
Helps your overall health
Deep cleanings are an essential step in maintaining your overall health. They help prevent gum disease, which has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.
Peace of mind
Knowing your teeth are in great condition gives you confidence in your overall health.
Who Needs Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings are for everyone, no matter your age. Whether you're a child, adult, or senior, it is crucial to keep an eye on your oral health and get a deep clean in. For children, regular teeth cleanings usually start around age three and should continue throughout your life. In fact, here at Queen Anne Smiles, we specialize in dental care for seniors, so don't hesitate to come in for a cleaning at any stage of life.
What’s Included in a Dental Cleaning at Queen Anne Smiles?
Our comprehensive dental cleanings, paired with our conservative techniques, are designed to ensure your teeth stay in optimal condition while minimizing the need for more invasive procedures. Here’s what you can expect during your teeth cleaning in Seattle with Queen Anne Smiles:
- Examination: A thorough check-up of your teeth, gums, and mouth to identify any issues.
- Plaque & Tartar Removal: Using a scaler or ultrasonic tool, our hygienists carefully remove plaque and tartar build-up.
- Polishing: Teeth are polished with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste to remove stains and remaining plaque.
- Flossing: We carefully floss between your teeth to clear any debris.
- Bone Health Monitoring: We measure bone health and track it over time.
- Visual Transparency: Using intraoral cameras, we show you exactly what’s needed for your teeth.
- Optional Fluoride Treatment: Some cleanings include fluoride for added protection against cavities.
If any concerns are identified, we’ll recommend further treatment, like fillings or deep cleaning.
We’ll also share personalized brushing and flossing strategies to keep your smile healthy in-between visits.
Meet Dr. Karla Aylen
You’re in expert hands with Dr. Karla Aylen, a distinguished dentist with extensive experience, ongoing education, and a proven track record of accomplishments in the dental field.
- Accomplishments: Recognized as one of Seattle Met’s Best Dentists by her peers.
- Education: Graduated from Boston College and the University of Texas Dental School.
- Leadership: President of the Seattle King County Dental Foundation Board and a beloved educator at the University of Washington Dental School.
Dr. Aylen’s approach to dentistry embodies everything Queen Anne Smiles stands for—quality, honesty, and a commitment to your comfort and health.
Teeth Cleanings FAQs
It’s recommended to get a cleaning every 6 months.
The cost varies depending on the type of cleaning and your insurance coverage. Please contact our office for specific pricing. We’ll ensure you fully understand your dental needs and associated costs, so there are no surprises.
A typical cleaning usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.
Dental cleanings are generally painless, though patients with gum sensitivity may feel slight discomfort at certain points throughout the procedure.
Yes, regular cleanings help prevent cavities by removing plaque and tartar that contribute to tooth decay.
Skipping cleanings can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, gum disease, gingivitis, periodontitis, and other dental issues that require more extensive treatment. Additionally, these dental issues have been linked to other health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and even stroke.
We accept most PPO dental insurance plans. Please contact us to verify your coverage.
Book Your Dental Cleaning in Seattle at Queen Anne Smiles Today - Appointments Available NOW!
A healthy smile starts with bi-annual dental cleanings – it’s the foundation of good oral and whole body health. Contact Queen Anne Smiles to schedule your routine dental cleaning or learn more about our services!