Dental Cleaning in Albuquerque, NM

Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good dental health. They help to prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other more serious dental issues.

A dental cleaning is a procedure that removes any buildup of plaque and tartar from the teeth. Our dentist uses special dental instruments to gently scrape away any buildup from the surface of the teeth. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Your cleaning will begin with a thorough evaluation of your oral health. You'll discuss any dental issues you're having, such as sensitivity or bleeding gums, so that our team can address them during your visit. 

Our dentist will use special tools to clean your teeth. We will first use an ultrasonic instrument to loosen the plaque and tartar on your teeth. We will also use a handheld instrument called a scaler to remove the buildup from your teeth. Then, we will polish your teeth to remove stains.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned?

It depends on the type of dental cleaning you need. Most dentists recommend getting a routine professional cleaning twice a year. Patients prone to periodontal disease or patients who already have gum disease will need to have deep cleanings performed more often. 

What Type of Dental Cleaning Is Recommended for Patients With Gum Disease?

Scaling and Root Planing

When tartar and plaque buildup on the teeth are not effectively removed, a patient's gum tissue can become inflamed and infected. A deep cleaning called scaling and root planing removes buildup and bacteria from under the gum line. 

Scaling is performed with an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibrations to clean out tartar. Root planing involves smoothing out the roots with a hand scaler or curette and is used to prevent bacteria from building up in the future.

How to Care for Your Mouth After Professional Dental Cleaning

After your dental cleaning, it's important to continue practicing good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing at home can help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, which leads to tooth decay and gum disease. So, you should brush and floss twice every day.

At North Star Dental, we ensure we provide each of our patients with a positive and relaxing dental experience. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, contact our dentist in Albuquerque, NM, at (505) 369-1881 or visit us at 9501 Paseo del Norte NE, Suite A, Albuquerque, NM 87122.