Keep Your Smile Sparkling: The Importance of Dental Cleanings at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry

Do you want a healthy, radiant smile that lights up a room? It all starts with regular dental cleanings! At Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry, the best dental office in Havre de Grace, MD, we understand the vital role dental cleanings play in maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Dr. Grubb and our skilled team are dedicated to providing gentle yet thorough cleanings, helping you preserve your natural smile for years. 

We proudly serve patients from Havre de Grace, MD, and the surrounding communities of Bel Air, Aberdeen, and Perryville. Call us today at (410) 939-5800 to schedule your appointment and experience the difference general dentistry care can make!

What Are Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings, also known as oral prophylaxis, are a crucial part of maintaining good oral health. They involve the removal of plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums, which helps prevent gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems. The dental cleaning process is quick and painless, and your dental hygienist will be sure to address every aspect of your oral hygiene.

Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings offer numerous benefits for your oral health and overall well-being:  

• Prevention of gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar, which are the main culprits.  
• Cavity prevention: Plaque buildup can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Professional cleanings remove this buildup, reducing your risk of developing cavities.  
• Early detection of oral health problems: During a cleaning, your dentist or hygienist can identify early signs of oral health issues like gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer. Early detection allows for timely treatment and can prevent problems from worsening.  
• Fresher breath: Plaque and tartar buildup can contribute to bad breath. Cleanings remove these odor-causing substances, leaving you with fresher breath.  

Why Choose Dr. Grubb for Professional Tooth Cleanings in Havre de Grace?

When it comes to your oral health, you deserve the best care possible. Here’s why you should choose Dr. Grubb and the team at Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry for your professional tooth cleanings in Havre de Grace:

• Experience and Skil: Dr. Grubb has extensive experience providing gentle and thorough dental cleanings. He and his team stay up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies to ensure you receive the highest quality care.
• Personalized Approach: Dr. Grubb understands that each patient is unique. He takes the time to understand your specific needs and concerns, and he will tailor your cleaning and oral hygiene recommendations accordingly.
• Comfortable Environment: At Family Implant and Reconstructive Dentistry, we strive to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all our patients. We want you to feel relaxed and at ease during your cleaning.

Call (410) 939-5800 to schedule your dental cleaning appointment with a top general dentist in Havre de Grace.

Types of Dental Cleanings

Routine Dental Cleanings (Prophylaxis)

This is the most common type of cleaning, recommended for individuals with good oral health. During a routine cleaning, our hygienist or dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth. This process is generally quick, typically taking less than an hour, and is usually performed twice a year as part of your regular dental checkups. 

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

Scaling and root planing, often referred to as a “deep cleaning,” is recommended for patients with moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis). This more intensive procedure addresses the buildup of plaque and tartar below the gum line. Our dentist or hygienist will carefully remove these deposits and smooth the tooth roots to prevent further accumulation and help the gums heal. 

Periodontal Maintenance

Following scaling and root planing, periodontal maintenance cleanings are essential for maintaining gum health. These cleanings are similar to routine cleanings but are focused on managing gum disease. During a periodontal maintenance appointment, our team will remove any new plaque and tartar buildup accumulated since your last deep cleaning. 

Gross Debridement

Gross debridement is a specialized cleaning procedure, not a routine one. It’s necessary when plaque and tartar have accumulated so excessively that a standard cleaning and oral examination are difficult to perform. This significant buildup can cause gum swelling and obscure the teeth, preventing a thorough assessment. 

Professional Dental Cleaning Costs

The cost of a professional dental cleaning varies, typically ranging from $75 to $200 for a basic cleaning and $150 to $350 per quadrant for a deep cleaning. Factors like location, the dentist’s experience, and insurance coverage all play a role.  

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive cleanings, so check your plan for details. To get a precise cost estimate and learn about our dental payment plans, it’s always best to contact our dental office at (410) 939-5800 and discuss your needs.

Maintaining Your Healthy, Clean Smile

Maintaining a healthy, clean smile involves a combination of good at-home habits and regular professional care. Here’s a breakdown of key elements: 

At Home:

• Brushing: Brush twice a day for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled brush and focus on all tooth surfaces, including the gum line.
• Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gum line, where your toothbrush can’t reach.  
• Healthy Diet: Limit sugary drinks and snacks, which contribute to tooth decay. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.  
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth clean and wash away food particles.  
• Mouthwash (Optional): An antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen breath, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing.  

Professional Care:

• Regular Dental Checkups: Visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings as often as recommended (usually every six months).  
• Professional Cleanings: These cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t remove at home, preventing gum disease and cavities.  
• Early Detection: Regular checkups allow your dentist to identify and treat oral health problems early when they’re easier and less expensive to address.

Frequently Asked Questions