Hygiene services are performed by one of our highly trained and experienced dental hygienists. Routine dental care and hygiene will play an important role in keeping your natural smile as healthy as possible- for as long as possible. You will leave our Virginia Beach dentist office with a fresh, clean smile that will support your overall oral health between visits.
Virginia Beach dentists Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley recommend that all patients come in for a dental cleaning and professional exam at least twice a year. These visits are important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and allow us to spot dental concerns in the early stages.
Early detection can mean early, conservative treatment and a reduced risk of permanent damage or chronic disease.
The Importance of Customized Dental Care
A dental cleaning is generally a painless procedure. Your hygienist will evaluate and review your individual gum and bone health status with you and work together to devise an appropriate approach to your care. This looks different for every patient. Many of our patients visit with our hygiene team every 3 months to ensure their gum and bone health remains stable. We will also look for other signs of dental diseases, such as decay.
If you have concerns or there are lifestyle habits that affect your oral health, discuss them with us so we can offer personalized oral hygiene advice that will help you keep your smile healthy for the long run. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
- Removal of calculus (tartar)
- Removal of plaque
- Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Teeth Cleanings Prevent Gum Disease
The best way to prevent gum disease is with good oral health routines, regular visits to our Virginia Beach dentist office, and a healthy diet. Removing plaque before it hardens into tartar can prevent gum irritation and gum disease.
During routine dental visits, our dentists carefully screen for signs and symptoms of gum disease. When caught early, gum disease is easily treatable and even reversible. It is important to treat gum disease in its early stages to prevent progression to periodontitis, which is more difficult to treat.
Teeth Cleaning for Children
Dr. Sinclair and Dr. Reichley offer dentistry for children at their Virginia Beach dentist office. We see children as young as age 4 and young adults to help them establish a solid foundation for long-term oral health. We offer comprehensive preventive dental care, including professional dental cleanings with a registered dental hygienist for entire families, including children.
One of the biggest challenges in children’s dentistry is preventing tooth decay. When you bring your child in twice a year for a dental checkup and cleaning, this provides our office the opportunity to spot decay in the early stages. The most conservative treatment options are available when diseases such as gum disease are detected in the early stages.
Teeth Cleaning FAQs
Will a teeth cleaning cause tooth sensitivity?
In certain cases, yes, but it is not common. If you visit the dentist regularly (at least twice a year) and have a good dental hygiene routine, you should not have tooth sensitivity after a dental cleaning. On the other hand, if you haven’t visited the dentist for years and do not practice good oral health, you may experience temporary tooth sensitivity after a routine dental cleaning. Tooth sensitivity goes away after a couple of days.
Does a teeth cleaning whiten teeth?
Yes. A teeth cleaning won’t give you the same effects as a complete tooth whitening treatment, but it will remove some plaque and yellow tartar from your teeth. You may notice a slightly brighter smile after your dental cleaning at Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry.
Can deep teeth cleanings address bad breath?
Yes. Most bad breath issues are from a rapid increase of bacteria in your mouth. Patients with gingivitis, periodontal disease, or infected gums harbor millions of bacteria in their deep gum pockets. When you get deep teeth cleaning, the bacterial count in your mouth is significantly reduced, effectively solving your issue of bad breath.
Should I brush my teeth before a dental cleaning?
It’s a good idea to brush before your appointment so your mouth feels fresher. A quick brush clears away some surface plaque, making the cleaning smoother. But don’t stress if you can’t fit it in; your hygienist will still clean thoroughly. Brushing beforehand mainly helps you feel more comfortable and confident.
Why do my teeth hurt after a dental cleaning?
Mild soreness often happens because the cleaning process removes plaque and tartar near sensitive areas. Gums can be tender if there’s been buildup for a while. This discomfort usually fades within a day or two. If it lingers or worsens, tell your dentist right away. Warm salt water rinses can soothe tenderness in many cases.
How soon can I eat or drink after a dental cleaning?
You can typically eat or drink right away unless you receive a fluoride treatment. If fluoride is applied, wait about 30 minutes so it can fully protect your teeth. Avoid super-hot or icy drinks if you feel sensitive. Some people prefer softer foods for a short time. Checking with your dentist ensures the best advice for your situation.
Does teeth cleaning remove bad breath?
Professional cleaning helps reduce bad breath by clearing out bacteria, plaque, and tartar. It reaches deep areas you may miss with regular brushing and flossing. You’ll often notice fresher breath afterward. If persistent bad breath continues, underlying gum disease or other issues could be the culprit. Regular cleanings, good hygiene, and follow-ups with your dentist usually keep your breath under control.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Teeth Cleaning Today
If you are searching for a dentist near Norfolk, Chesapeake, or Virginia Beach, schedule an appointment with Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry today. Whether you need a family dentist or you suffer from complex dental issues, Dr. Sinclair and Dr. Reichley offer treatment that can help you.
Contact Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at 757-656-6368, or use our online request form.