Cleanings

The prevention of disease.

Professional cleanings (dental prophylaxis) performed by a certified dental hygienist form the foundation for preventing gum disease and tooth decay. In a professional cleaning, your hygienist will:

• Remove plaque from the teeth — Plaque is a sticky substance that forms in the mouth from food, saliva and bacteria. Plaque sticks to teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease.
• Remove calculus (tartar) above and below the gum line — Calculus is plaque that has hardened on the tooth surface and is difficult to remove
• Polish and remove stains from teeth.
Floss the teeth.
Apply a fluoride varnish to the teeth.