Dental Cleanings and Preventive Dentistry in Glendale, AZ
Cleaning and Prevention
Preventing dental problems is a priority to our team. We recommend that all patients have at least biannual cleanings and examinations. Not only do proper dental cleanings help you avoid dental problems before they arise. They help your gums heal, give you fresher breath, and leave your teeth looking more brilliant.
A professional cleaning removes hard calculus and plaque that is not removed by regular brushing and flossing alone. We also apply prescription strength fluoride to strengthen your teeth and polish to remove stain and rejuvenate the appearance of your teeth. If you have not been able to see a dentist and have not had your teeth cleaned for years, we are here to help you get back to great dental health.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleaning
Daily brushing and flossing are essential, but they cannot always remove every deposit that forms on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that continually develops around the teeth and gums. When plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, also called dental calculus.
Once tartar has formed, it cannot be completely removed with an ordinary toothbrush or dental floss. A dental hygienist uses specialized instruments to carefully remove plaque and tartar from areas that are difficult to clean at home.
Professional teeth cleanings can help:
Reduce the risk of cavities
Prevent or control gum inflammation
Remove plaque and tartar buildup
Reduce surface stains
Freshen your breath
Identify possible dental problems early
Protect the health of your teeth and gums
Support your overall oral health
After the buildup has been removed, your teeth may be polished to smooth their surfaces and reduce external staining. Fluoride treatment may also be recommended to strengthen tooth enamel and provide additional protection against decay.
How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?
Many patients benefit from having a professional dental cleaning and examination approximately every six months. However, some patients may need more frequent appointments based on their individual oral health needs. Here are some factors that may affect how often you should visit the dentist.
Your history of cavities
The health of your gums
Existing dental restorations
Dry mouth
Tobacco use
Diabetes and other health conditions
Medications that affect oral health
Your ability to clean your teeth at home
Previous gum disease
Patients with active gum disease or a history of periodontal problems may need more frequent visits and periodontal maintenance rather than a routine cleaning. Dr. Fineberg will recommend a schedule based on your individual oral health needs.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Your dental cleaning appointment generally begins with a review of your medical history, medications, and any concerns you have noticed since your last visit. Your hygienist will then examine your teeth and gums before beginning the cleaning.
Your treatment will be adjusted to your comfort and oral health needs. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, please let our team know so we can help make your visit more comfortable.
During the appointment, your Glendale dental team may:
Examine your teeth and gums for visible concerns.
Measure or evaluate the gum tissue when appropriate.
Remove plaque and hardened tartar from the teeth.
Clean around the gumline and between the teeth.
Polish the teeth to remove certain surface stains.
Floss between the teeth.
Apply fluoride when recommended.
Review brushing, flossing, and home-care techniques.
Complete a dental examination with Dr. Fineberg.
Take digital X-rays when they are due or clinically necessary.
Preventive Dental Care at Home
Professional dental care works best when it is supported by consistent habits at home. Mouthwash can be a useful addition to your routine, but it does not replace brushing and flossing. Our team can recommend products and techniques based on your teeth, gums, dental work, and personal needs.
Your needs may vary, but a good daily oral hygiene routine generally includes:
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Brushing for approximately two minutes
Cleaning along the gumline and all tooth surfaces
Flossing or using another interdental cleaner once a day
Using a therapeutic mouth rinse when recommended
Limiting frequent sugary foods and beverages
Drinking plenty of water
Avoiding smoking, vaping, and other tobacco products
Cleaning dentures, retainers, night guards, and other appliances
Replacing your toothbrush when the bristles become worn
Oral Cancer Screening in Glendale
Routine dental examinations also give your dentist an opportunity to look for unusual changes involving the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, throat, and other oral tissues. An oral cancer screening generally includes a visual and physical examination for sores, lumps, discolored areas, or other changes that may require further evaluation.
Possible risk factors for oral and throat cancers include tobacco use, frequent alcohol consumption, a previous history of oral cancer, prolonged sun exposure affecting the lips, and certain strains of human papillomavirus, or HPV. However, unusual tissue changes can develop in people without obvious risk factors.
An oral screening cannot diagnose cancer by itself. If Dr. Fineberg identifies a concerning area, additional monitoring, testing, or referral to an appropriate specialist may be recommended.
Contact us if you notice a sore that does not heal, a persistent lump, unexplained bleeding, difficulty swallowing, ongoing hoarseness, or another unusual change in your mouth or throat.