A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing cannot reach, protecting your teeth and gums from decay and disease. This routine preventive service takes about 30 to 60 minutes and forms the foundation of good oral health for patients of all ages.
At Virgin River Dental, Dr. Brett Davis and our hygiene team make every cleaning thorough, comfortable, and personalized to your needs. We combine advanced technology with a welcoming atmosphere to ensure you leave with a cleaner, healthier smile and a clear understanding of your oral health status.
The Initial Examination
Your cleaning begins with a comprehensive examination of your mouth. Our hygienist checks your teeth, gums, and soft tissues for any signs of problems like cavities, gum inflammation, or oral lesions. This visual inspection helps us identify areas that need special attention during the cleaning and alerts us to concerns that may require further evaluation.
We also review your medical history and any changes since your last visit. Certain medications, health conditions, or lifestyle factors can affect your oral health, so keeping us informed helps us provide the most appropriate care. If you have specific concerns or sensitive areas, let us know so we can adjust our approach accordingly.
Digital X-rays may be taken during this phase if they're due according to your treatment schedule. These images reveal problems beneath the surface that aren't visible during a visual exam, such as decay between teeth or bone loss around roots. Our modern equipment uses minimal radiation while providing detailed information about your oral health.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
The main cleaning process focuses on removing hardened deposits from your teeth. Our hygienist uses specialized instruments called scalers to carefully eliminate tartar that has accumulated along the gumline and between teeth. Tartar forms when plaque mineralizes and bonds to enamel, creating a rough surface that attracts more bacteria and can only be removed with professional tools.
You'll hear scraping sounds during this phase, which is completely normal. The amount of time spent scaling depends on how much buildup has formed since your last cleaning. Patients who maintain regular six-month appointments typically have less tartar and experience quicker, more comfortable cleanings.
Areas below the gumline receive attention as well, particularly if you show early signs of gum disease. Removing bacteria from these pockets helps prevent inflammation from progressing and protects the bone that supports your teeth. The process may cause slight discomfort if your gums are sensitive, but we work gently and can apply numbing gel if needed.
Polishing and Fluoride Treatment
After all tartar is removed, we polish your teeth using a gritty paste and a rotating brush. This step smooths the tooth surfaces and removes surface stains from coffee, tea, or other foods. The polishing paste comes in various flavors, and while the texture feels grainy, most patients find the process satisfying as they feel their teeth becoming noticeably cleaner.
Polishing also removes soft plaque that may have formed during the scaling process. The smooth finish makes it harder for bacteria to stick to your teeth, helping you maintain the results of your cleaning longer. Your teeth will feel incredibly smooth when you run your tongue across them afterward.
We finish with a fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and provide extra protection against cavities. The fluoride gel or foam sits on your teeth for about a minute, allowing the mineral to absorb into the enamel. This treatment is particularly beneficial for children and adults prone to decay, though patients of all ages can benefit from the added defense.
Education and Recommendations
Before you leave, we will discuss our findings and provide personalized recommendations for your home care routine. This might include guidance on proper brushing technique, advice about flossing, or suggestions for addressing specific concerns like sensitivity or bad breath. We want you to feel confident about maintaining your oral health between visits.
If we notice any areas of concern during your cleaning, we'll explain what we found and discuss potential treatment options. This might include scheduling a follow-up appointment for dental fillings, evaluating you for gum disease treatment, or recommending cosmetic services to improve your smile's appearance. We always present information clearly so you can make informed decisions about your care.
We also schedule your next cleaning before you leave. Regular appointments every six months help prevent problems from developing and catch issues early when they're easiest to treat. Consistent preventive care saves you time, discomfort, and money in the long run.
Experience Exceptional Care at Virgin River Dental
Virgin River Dental makes preventive care convenient and affordable for every family in St. George. Dr. Brett Davis, voted Best Cosmetic Dentist of Southern Utah for the past five years, leads a team committed to providing thorough, gentle care in a comfortable environment. Our practice features TVs in every treatment room and activities for children, ensuring that dental visits are pleasant experiences for patients of all ages.
We offer same-day appointments for urgent concerns and work with all major PPO insurance companies to maximize your benefits. New patients can take advantage of our $99 special, which includes a cleaning, exam, and X-rays. Our dental membership plans provide an affordable alternative for those without insurance, covering preventive services and offering discounts on restorative treatments. Contact us today to schedule your next cleaning and experience the difference that attentive, personalized care makes.
