Teeth Cleaning

Regular teeth cleaning removes plaque, ensures a healthy smile, and reduces the risk of common issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. At Uptown Dental in Cedar Hill, Texas, general dentist Jeffrey Belz, DDS, uses preventive teeth cleaning to keep smiles vibrant and cavity-free. Call Uptown Dental today to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment or book your visit online.

Do I need professional teeth cleaning if I regularly brush and floss?

Yes. It’s important to undergo professional teeth cleaning twice annually, even if you brush and floss. 

Plaque –– a film of food, bacteria, and saliva –– collects between your teeth and under your gums. The only way to access that build-up is with professional teeth cleaning.

What can I expect during professional teeth cleaning?

Professional teeth cleaning at Uptown Dental includes the following steps:

Step 1: Oral exam

Dr. Belz uses gloved hands to examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. He measures the distance between your gum tissue and teeth, checks for cavities, and assesses your tooth and jaw alignment.

Step 2: Oral X-rays

Oral X-rays use digital sensors and advanced imaging technology to capture photos of your tooth roots, jaw, and alveolar (the bone that anchors your upper teeth). X-rays help Dr. Belz identify underlying issues, like bone loss and tooth decay.

Step 3: Teeth cleaning

A dental technician or dental hygienist removes the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and beneath your gums. You might hear some scraping noises during this part of your appointment, but you shouldn’t experience any discomfort. 

Step 4: Teeth polishing with gritty toothpaste

Your dental hygienist or technician uses an electronic toothbrush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. The gritty consistency removes any remaining buildup and eliminates minor stains and tooth discoloration.

Step 5: Professional flossing

After polishing your teeth, your dental hygienist flosses them. Flossing removes any remaining buildup between your teeth and massages your gums so they stay healthy. 

Step 6: Optional fluoride treatment

Dr. Belz recommends fluoride treatment if you have teeth susceptible to cavities. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens your enamel for several months.

At the end of your teeth cleaning, Dr. Belz alerts you to any potential concerns and makes personalized recommendations to prevent them from worsening. 

How do I prepare for professional teeth cleaning?

Before visiting Uptown Dental for professional teeth cleaning, you should brush and floss. Consider writing down questions or concerns you’d like to discuss with Dr. Belz, too. It’s easy to forget during the appointment, so this can provide peace of mind.

Call Uptown Dental today to schedule professional teeth cleaning or book your appointment online.