Why are routine dental cleanings important to oral health and wellness?
You may be well aware that your dentists, Drs. Vanessa L. Quihuis and Anthony F.R. Quihuis at Shine Dental Arts in Phoenix, Arizona, encourage you to book regular visits for cleanings and examinations. But why? This is to discuss your oral health and wellness needs and determine how often you should visit for routine dental cleanings and care.
Why should I see a dentist regularly?
Our dentists at Shine Dental Arts suggest that it is essential to see a dentist and make a dental hygienist appointment regularly for several reasons:
- Prevention of oral health issues. Regular dental check-ups help catch potential problems early, like cavities or gum disease. This allows for prompt treatment and prevents more serious issues from developing
- Professional teeth cleaning. Even with routine brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can still build up on your natural tooth enamel. A professional cleaning performed regularly can effectively remove this buildup and prevent it from causing issues in the future
- Early detection of other health concerns. Your dental health is closely linked to your overall health, and certain oral health issues can be signs of more severe conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Regular visits to our dental team can help catch these issues soon and allow for prompt treatment
- Personalized care and advice. Every person’s oral health needs are unique, and regular visits to the dentist allow for personalized care and advice tailored to your specific oral health needs. Our dentists can also provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and recommend any necessary treatments or procedures
How often should I see a dentist?
The recommended frequency of dental check-ups may vary depending on your oral health. Most patients will benefit from seeing their dentist at Shine Dental Arts every six months, while others may need to visit more frequently due to conditions such as periodontal disease, which may require more routine evaluations and cleanings to control the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
A dental cleaning is comfortable for most people. You may feel mild pressure or light scraping as we remove plaque and tartar, but it shouldn’t be painful. If you have sensitive gums or teeth, let us know. We can adjust the technique to suit your comfort level.
Do I need a professional cleaning if I brush and floss my teeth daily?
Yes! Even with excellent home care, plaque can harden into tartar in hard-to-reach areas. You cannot remove tartar with your toothbrush or dental floss—it requires specialized dental instruments. Professional cleanings help remove unhealthy deposits to protect your smile from cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. We also inspect your teeth and gums to detect issues that may have gone unnoticed at home.
Do children need dental cleanings?
Yes! Patients of all ages need preventive care. Children require dental cleanings as soon as a few teeth come in. Starting preventive care early builds a foundation for lifelong oral health.
What if I have not seen a dentist in many years?
You are not alone, and there is no judgment. Whether it has been two years or twenty, the important thing is that you have made the decision to restart your dental care. We will evaluate your oral health and create a personalized plan to help put your smile on a healthy track. At our office, we never judge or lecture you. The objective is to help you achieve your healthiest, most confident smile.
Does teeth cleaning make my teeth loose?
No. Cleanings do not cause teeth to become loose in a healthy mouth. In fact, removing tartar buildup helps preserve the structures that keep teeth secure. If teeth feel slightly different afterward, it is often because you have gum disease. In such cases, our dentist will recommend advanced care to help restore optimal oral health.
Does teeth cleaning make my smile whiter?
Yes, up to a point. A professional cleaning removes surface stains that are caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco. This restores your smile’s natural appearance. If you want to make your teeth several shades lighter, professional whitening treatments may be the ideal choice.
What is the difference between standard cleanings and deep cleanings?
Regular cleanings (oral prophylaxis) are preventive and focus on removing plaque and tartar on the tooth surface above the gum line. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is recommended when you have active gum disease. A deep cleaning targets unhealthy buildup below the gumline to eliminate infection and promote healing. Unlike regular dental cleanings, deep teeth cleanings may need anesthesia and often require more than one visit.
How much is a dental cleaning in Phoenix, AZ?
Cost depends on the type of cleaning and the amount of buildup. However, routine cleanings are typically very affordable and are likely covered by insurance.
Does insurance cover dental cleanings?
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, including routine cleanings. However, coverage may vary depending on your policy. It is always essential to verify your benefits before any treatment begins.
Is it time for a dental cleaning appointment in Phoenix, AZ?
Are you due for a dental cleaning appointment? Don’t wait for a dental emergency to schedule an appointment with us. Be proactive about your oral health and call (480) 893-3072. Shine Dental Arts offers high-quality services rooted in excellence and patient satisfaction.
Are you ready to take charge of your oral health and wellness?
Contact the team at Shine Dental Arts to request an appointment with Drs. Vanessa L. Quihuis and Anthony F.R. Quihuis. We are open to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona, and welcome new patients and families ready for optimum dental health!
Call (480) 893-3072 to request a visit to our dental clinic at 4950 East Elliot Road.
When was your last dental cleaning? Brushing and flossing are important, but they’re not enough to keep your teeth truly clean. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, something you can’t remove at home. A professional dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Your hygienist gently removes buildup from your teeth and along the gum line using special tools. Next, your teeth are polished to remove stains and leave your smile feeling smooth and fresh. We finish with expert flossing and fluoride to strengthen your teeth and help prevent cavities. Regular cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, keeping your smile healthy long term. Most cleanings take less than an hour and can save you from bigger dental problems later. A healthier smile starts with prevention. Schedule your cleaning today.
