Dental Cleanings in Hampton, VA

Cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Professional cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar buildup. They also help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Thanks to the advancements in dentistry, we perform dental cleanings through ultrasonic scaling.

It is important to note that some people may need additional or more frequent cleanings. Patients that have braces may need to have their teeth cleaned more often because food particles can easily become trapped in the wires and brackets of braces. Also, patients with certain medical conditions may be more susceptible to oral diseases that need greater attention. It is important to talk to your Dentist Hampton, VA about the recommended schedule for cleanings so your teeth can stay as healthy as possible!

How do teeth stain?

A common misconception is that teeth become stained by food, drink, and tobacco products. In reality, the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel, is naturally porous. Over time, things that we consume – such as dark berries or coffee – gradually penetrate the enamel layer to discolor the teeth.

In addition, medications, environmental factors, and even the aging process can stain a tooth’s surface. That is why it’s important to visit your dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and checkup. During these appointments, Dr. Cheng will remove the adhered plaque and tartar deposits through scaling and remove minor surface stains using a professional-strength whitening treatment. If the discoloration is more severe, he may recommend veneers or crowns for a more noticeable and long-lasting dentition makeover solution.

What to expect from your cleaning

We’ll begin by inspecting your mouth to make sure it is healthy and that you don’t have any cavities or issues with your gums. Then, we’ll remove any plaque buildup and tartar from the teeth and around the gum line. We may also offer fluoride treatments to protect your teeth against decay.

Next, we’ll polish the teeth to remove any remaining stains. This will leave your smile looking brighter and whiter. Finally, we will floss your teeth and give you tips and advice for how to brush and floss more effectively at home to prevent any disease and decay in the future.

Oral cleaning at home

Brushing is the most basic form of cleaning. It should be done at least twice a day to remove plaque from the teeth and freshen the breath. A soft-bristled toothbrush should be used, and care should be taken to brush all surfaces of each tooth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces of the teeth.

Electric toothbrushes are also a good option for people that have a hard time thoroughly brushing their teeth. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time. For patients that suffer from gum disease, an electric toothbrush can be especially effective as it allows the power to reach underneath the gums where bacteria hide out.

To find out more about the dental services offered at Cheng Dental, call (757) 838-9140 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 21 Towne Centre Way, Hampton, VA 23666.